Blankenship, Sr., Darren Dewayne
Darren Dewayne Blankenship, Sr. departed this life on November 6th , 2026 at the age of 59. He was born on June 18, 1967, to Wayne Blankenship and late Jenny Edwards of Narrows.
Darren spent his life surrounded by the people who he cared about the most. At a young age he could be found running the streets of Narrows, fishing, playing and exploring with his siblings and cousins by his side. The importance of family was instilled in him early, and as his family grew so did his capacity for love.
His devotion to his family earned him several titles throughout his life such as Dad, Uncle D, and perhaps his favorite “Popeye” which was the name affectionally given to him by his grandchildren. He spent the last 13 years being spoiled and cared for by the love his life, Shelia Kirk, whom he loved beyond measure. He will always be remembered as the man of steel, who loved his family unconditionally and demonstrated kindness to all who knew him. He departed this life in same manner that he lived it, surrounded by the people who loved him the most.
Left to cherish his memory are his son and daughter-in-law D.J. and Courtney Blankenship; his fiancé, Shelia Kirk and her children whom he loved Devin and Anna Kirk; his sisters Angie and the late Hammer Baker, Vanessa (Dawn) Perkins, Carol and Mike Kirk, Sandy and Mike Bailey and Cathy and Mike Carbaugh; his brothers, Daniel Blankenship, Junior and Denise Blankenship, and Herby Blankenship. His Grandchildren Raylan Blankenship, Sadie Blankenship, John Blankenship, Lyla Kirk, Libby Kirk, and Lainey Kirk, his special hunting buddy Jason Blankenship and a multitude of Nephews, Nieces, and cousins.
There will be a celebration of the life of Darren at Kendall Funeral Home on Wednesday, November 11, 2026 at 11:00 AM with D.J. and Courtney Blankenship officiating. The services will conclude at Fairview Cemetery in Narrows, VA. Family will receive friends at Kendall Funeral Home on Tuesday, November 10th from 5:00 until 7:00PM.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a contribution in his honor to FCA Outdoors NRV. Donations can be sent to FCA Outdoor NRV, Attn: Eric Sheetz 308 Mountain Drive, Pearisburg, VA 24134.
A guestbook is available to send condolences to the family by visiting www.kendallfuneralhome.com. The staff of Kendall Funeral Home are honored to serve the Blankenship family.
