Chester Wallace Blankenship

Chester Wallace Blankenship passed away on Friday, April 4, 2025 in Johnson City at the age of 91. Born in Elk Valley, Tennessee, Chester was the son of the late McKinley and Virginia Gibson Blankenship. He attended East Tennessee State University and was a graduate of The University of Tennessee College of Pharmacy.

Chester was deeply committed to his work and in 1963, along with his wife Carol, opened Blankenship Pharmacy. For the next 41 years, he owned and operated the independent pharmacy at the corner of Watauga and Elm. Although the pharmacy was sold in 2004 to Boone Drug, it maintained the Blankenship name with Chester working on a full and part-time basis until his retirement in 2019. In 2020, Chester was recognized with a Proclamation by the Tennessee State Senate for his dedicated service as a registered pharmacist for 65 years in the greater Johnson City community.

Chester’s life was enriched by three enduring passions: his beloved wife Carol and their extended family, his dedication to Blankenship Pharmacy, and his collection of British sports cars. He was also enriched by a strong faith in Jesus Christ and his long-time membership at Wesley Memorial United Methodist Church.

Chester was preceded in death by his parents and his younger brother Charles. He is survived by Carol Herd Blankenship, his loving wife of 68 years. He is also survived by his sister-in-law Barbara Blankenship and nephew Eddie Blankenship along with many extended family members.

A reception honoring the life of Chester will be held Friday, April 11, 2025 from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Morris-Baker Funeral Home in Johnson City. Funeral services will be private.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in memory of Chester to The Salvation Army, PO Box 1715, Johnson City, TN 37605.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family via www.morrisbaker.com

Morris-Baker Funeral Home, 2001 E Oakland Ave, Johnson City, is honored to serve the Blankenship family. (423) 282-1521