Rondal Brian Blankenship

Rondal Brian Blankenship, P.E., age 55, entered the gates of heaven on October 25, 2025.

To know Brian was to love him. His genuine warmth and commitment to others left an undeniable mark on his community. Brian was best known for his intelligence, his ability to bring laughter to any setting, and a strong desire to push those around him to reach their fullest potential, often delivering life-altering advice, and his knack for inventing the most iconic nicknames.

Brian was a dedicated mentor and coach whose influence shaped countless young lives. Through his volunteer work in midget league football, little league baseball/softball, and many other coaching roles, he built more than just winning teams. As he reflected in his last days, he shared: “Coaching was never about the wins and losses. It was about ministering to young people and building relationships.”

A proud graduate of Virginia Tech in 1993 with a degree in Civil Engineering, Brian built a highly successful career as a professional engineer, accomplishing his goals as the Regional Director of the Virginia Department of Health, Office of Drinking Water. His passion for the Hokies was indisputable; he was an avid and dedicated fan, almost never missing a home football game in Lane Stadium.

Brian's rich legacy lives on through his beloved wife, Natalie Blankenship; his sons, Austin and Aaron Blankenship; his daughter, Annah Booher; his daughter-in-laws, Devin and Lexi Blankenship; his son-in-law, Josh Booher; and his precious grandson, Luca Blankenship. He is also survived by his loving mother, Margaret Blankenship; father, Ronnie Blankenship; sister, April Harris, and many others.

The family will receive friends on Tuesday, October 28, 2025 from 5:00pm - 7:00pm at Farris Funeral Service - Main Street Chapel. Funeral services will begin at 7:00 pm with Bro. Dwayne Dillard officiating. The graveside service will be held on Wednesday, October 29, 2025 at 11:00 am at Forest Hills Memory Gardens. The funeral procession will leave from Farris Funeral Service - Main Street Chapel at 10:30 am. Pallbearers will be Austin Blankenship, Aaron Blankenship, RJ Coleman, Curtis King, Brian Ratliff and Josh Booher. Honorary pallbearers will be ODW, Kevin Price, David Ratliff, Ronnie Blankenship, Jeff Woodward and former players of the various teams Brian coached through the years.