Avery L. Blankenship, Sr., 71, of Salem, went to be with his Lord on Friday, May 13, 2005 after a seven year battle with cancer. Avery was born in Narrows, Va. He was an active member of the First Evangelical Methodist Church where he was a hard worker as well as a faithful leader. Avery is retired from Yokohama Tire. Avery will be remembered most for his faith in God and dedication to his family. Throughout his illness, he never complained and whenever asked how he felt, always responded, "Very well, thank you. How are you?" Avery is predeceased by his parents, Nellie and Burman Blankenship; sisters, Helen Marie Blankenship and Mae Hazelwood; and brothers, Luther, Emmitte, Haden, and Amos Blankenship. Avery is survived by his devoted, beloved wife of 48 years, Patricia P. Blankenship; daughters, Kathy Basham and husband, Terry, and Katrina Jarrett and husband, Mark; son, Avery Blankenship, Jr. and wife, Tammy; grandchildren, Stephanie Alderson and husband, Bill, Jeremy Basham and fiance, April Brooks, Justin Jarrett, Sara Blankenship, Cathryn Jarrett, and Melissa Blankenship; great-grandchildren, Grant and Erika Alderson, all of Salem; sister, Rhodessa Riddle; brothers, Donald Blankenship and wife, Elsie, and Roger Blankenship; and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends. The family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations in Avery's memory be sent to the sound system fund at First Evangelical Methodist Church on 1920 Lucas Street in Salem, Va. 24153. The family will receive friends on Sunday, May 15, 2005 from 5 to 9 p.m. at the funeral home. A funeral service will be held on Monday, May 16, 2005 at 2 p.m. at First Evangelical Methodist Church with Pastor Travis Oswald officiating. Interment will follow at Sherwood Memorial Park in Salem.