Leslie Emory Blankenship, Jr., 94, of Daleville, Virginia, passed away peacefully at his home on September 11, 2026.

He was born on January 21, 1932 in Roanoke, Virginia, to Leslie and Lillian Blankenship.

Les was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Bobby; sister, Ilene; his beloved wife, Rader; and his daughter, Phyllis.

He was survived by his children, Jim Blankenship (Lisa) and Deb Moore (JD); grandchildren, Scott, Josh, Laura, Chris and Zach and great grandchildren, Riley, Andrew, Noah, Gabe, Hunter, Camryn, George, Zachary, Chandler and Scottie.

Les proudly served in the United States Air Force during the Korean War. He was a Radio Operator on the B17 Bomber and received a honorably discharged July 1954.

After his military service, he married the love of his life, Rader. They shared 64 years of marriage until Rader's passing in January 2020.

Les started his career with the Federal Aviation Administration as an Air Traffic Controller and retired from the Roanoke Air Traffic Control Tower in January 1985 as a Tower Supervisor.

A graveside service was be held at 11:00 am, Monday, September 14, 2026 in Sherwood Memorial Park, 1250 East Main Street, Salem, Virginia 24153 with Pastor Warren officiating.

Online condolences may be made at www.botetourtfh.com.