James Dale Blanton, 48, of Rochelle, went to be with Jesus Christ on Wednesday, Nov. 22, 2023, at the Generation At Neighbors Home in Byron, after battling chronic renal disease for 20 years. He was born in Ottawa, the son of Willian Monroe Blanton and brother to Cathy Blanton-Belmonte and William Noah Blanton.
James’ laugh and smile were pleasant to witness. Everyone within the family had a good time when they seen him cheerful. The strength James had was powerful and it was seen during his final days with his battle. James now reunites with his father and grandparents in Heaven, The family he leaves behind will forever look to the sky in remembrance of him until they are with him again.
James is survived by his sister, Cathy Blanton-Belmonte; brother-in-law Neftali Belmonte Sr., niece, Kelly Ann Belmonte, great nephew Noah Bryan Osborne, nephew Neftali Belmonte Jr., great niece Milla Ruth Belmonte, brother William Noah Blanton, sister-in-law Marge Smith Blanton, nephew Zachary Russell Smith, niece Anna Marie Blanton, niece Shyanne Autumn Blanton and many others.
James was laid to rest in the Garden of the Last Supper at Oakwood Memorial Park