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Hizzie Wayne Blankenship, age 71, of Alabaster, Alabama, passed away on July 5, 2026, at his residence.
Wayne was born in Shelby County, Alabama, on June 10, 1955, to the late Hillard Hezzie Blankenship and the late Johnny Sue Campbell Blankenship. He spent many years working as a steel worker, a profession that reflected his strong work ethic and dedication to providing for his family.
Wayne was a man with a servant's heart who found great fulfillment in helping others. For more than a decade, he faithfully volunteered as the building manager for Manna Ministries, where his willingness to serve and his caring spirit touched countless lives. He never sought recognition for his efforts, finding his reward in being a blessing to others.
An avid outdoorsman, Wayne loved spending time fishing and enjoying the beauty of God's creation. He also had a deep appreciation for music and could often be found picking up a guitar or playing his mandolin, sharing songs and fellowship with family and friends. While he enjoyed many hobbies and interests, nothing in his life was more important than his family. They were the center of his world, and he treasured every moment spent with them.
He leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife, Tammy Lynn Blankenship of Alabaster; his sons, Chadwick Blankenship and Travis Blankenship, both of Alabaster; his daughter, Tabitha (Michael) Kilgore of Jemison; his granddaughters, Winter Grace Kilgore of Jemison and Loegan Blankenship of Alabaster; his grandson, Michael “Mikey” Kilgore of Maplesville; and numerous extended family members and friends.
He was preceded in death by his grandson, Austin Blankenship; his parents, Hezzie and Johnny Sue Blankenship; his sister, Brenda Carter; and his brother, Leon Blankenship.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, July 11, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. from the Chapel of Ellison Memorial Funeral Home in Clanton with Rev. Eddie Bozeman officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.
"By love serve one another." — Galatians 5:13b (KJV)
Final care and arrangements have been entrusted to Ellison Memorial Funeral Home of Clanton, Alabama.