Ernest "Speedy "Blankenship, 76, of 1119 Old Bramwell Rd., Bluefield was welcomed by Jesus to his new home on June 12, 2014. Born in Grundy, VA, July 29, 1937. He was the son of the late Nina Blankenship-Moore of Falls Mills and Clellie Blankenship of Pike, KY. He has been a resident of Bluefield for 60 years and was employed with the West Virginia Water Company for 29 years where he was known as "Speedy". After retirement he enjoyed working on lawn mowers and doing small engine repair. When he took time to relax his favorite things to do were watch John Wayne movies and sit on his front porch with his many friends and reminisce. He is preceded in death by his two sons David Lee and Michael Dwayne Blankenship. Left to cherish his memories are his wife Brenda C. Blankenship, three daughters Katherine Vaughn and her better half Robbie Perry of Scottsville, VA, Darlene Gilley and Melissa Blankenship of Bluefield, VA. Four grandsons, Chris Gillenwater and his wife Brittany of Athens, WV, Mark Gillenwater of Bluefield, VA, Christopher Blankenship of Guthrie, OK, ant Tyler Blankenship of Herkermer, NY. Great grandchildren Emma and Ethan Gillenwater. A celebration of his life will be Saturday, June 14, 2014 at 6:00 PM at the Cravens-Shires Funeral Home Chapel in Bluewell with the Rev. David Bailey officiating. Friends may call on Saturday from 5:00-6:00 PM at the funeral home. Online condolences will be accepted at www.cravens-shires.com