Patricia Joyce Blanton, 78, of Valdese, NC, passed away Thursday, May 7, 2026 after a courageous battle with cancer.
Born in Rockingham County, NC on November 9, 1947, she was the daughter of the late Earl Wilson Joyce and Mary Frances Montgomery Joyce.
Patricia was a member of First Baptist for the Deaf. She loved her church, and she loved socializing and being with her friends in the deaf community. Mrs. Blanton also loved being a grandmother and spending time with her dog.
Those left to cherish her memory include her children, Scott Blanton (Crystal) and Suzanne Kaminske (Tim); grandchildren, Alexander Blanton, Hunter Holland, Christopher Kaminske, and Ryan Kaminske; great-grandchildren, Janiya Shuford and one-on-the-way, Elias Kaminske; sister, Earlene Beach; canine companion, Daisy; and numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family.
In addition to her parents, Patricia was preceded in death by her husband, Ted Jackson Blanton; and a sister, Brenda Buff.
The family will receive friends from 5 to 7 p.m., Tuesday, May 12, 2026 at Sossoman Funeral Home. The funeral will be held at 1 p.m., Wednesday, May 13, 2026 in the Colonial Chapel of the funeral home with Dr. Jeffrey Beach officiating. Sally Dixon will be interpreting. The graveside service will follow at Burke Memorial Park.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Deaf and Blind Pathways Foundation, memo: NCSD Students, PO Box 1397, Morganton, NC 28680 or to the American Cancer Society.
Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.
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She was a sweet lady always friendly and kids loved her as well as she loved them. Her smile and sweet heart will be missed.
Such a beautiful soul. Rest in paradise.
Scott and family, we at MMP didn't know your mother other than through your stories and conversations about her or the occasional over the shoulder hello of an online conversation. She seemed like a fantastic woman and was clearly cherished. All of our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.
Heart is breaking for all the Blanton and Extend families. The loss of a mother is hard Especially in a close knit family and Community such as yours. God/prayer will See you through the rough patches as you grieve. Love to all of you.
I had the pleasure of working with Patty at Burke County DSS. She was always so very kind and upbeat, a true gem. My sincerest condolences to the family of this sweet lady.