James Donald "Don" Blanford

James Donald “Don” Blanford, 85, of Boggstown, passed away on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, at his home.

He was born December 4, 1939, in Kentucky, the son of Paul and Mary Louise (Murphy) Blanford. On November 29, 1969, he married Jeanine Rose Stone, and she preceded him in death on March 17, 2021.

Don is survived by his children, Patrick Blanford and wife, Karen, of Indianapolis, Maureen Paul of Irvine, California, Sean Blanford and wife, Lisa, of Lewisville, Theresa Hildebrand and husband, Jeff, of North Salem, Donna Widmer and husband, Jason, of Marysville, Ohio, and Paul Blanford and wife, Sarah, of Needham; sisters, Jane Menton of Kentucky, Theresa Hedrick and Judy Neal, both of Indianapolis; 14 grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to Jeanine, Don was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Ella Fitzgerald; and brother, Thomas Blanford.

He was a US Army veteran, serving as a sergeant, during the Vietnam war.

Don was a member of Saint Joseph Catholic Church.

He was a machinist for the railroad, retiring in February of 2002.

Don was a member of the Knights of Columbus and Eagles Aerie Lodge No. 766.

He enjoyed going hunting and fishing.

Visitation will be from 2 to 6 pm, Sunday, November 2, 2025, at Freeman Family Funeral Homes and Crematory, 819 S. Harrison St. in Shelbyville, with the rosary recited at 1:30 pm.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10 am, Monday, November 3, 2025, at Saint Joseph Catholic Church, 125 E. Broadway, in Shelbyville, with Father Mike Keucher officiating.

Interment will be at Boggstown Cemetery in Boggstown, with military rites conducted by the local military committee.

Memorial contributions may be made to Little Sisters of the Poor, 2345 W. 86th St., Indianapolis, Indiana 46260.

Online condolences may be shared with Don’s family at www.freemanfamilyfuneralhomes.com.