Ravenna, Texas -- Blanton Lee Hanes, 90, of the Sandy Community, passed away on October 16, 2026, at the Clyde W. Cosper Texas State Veterans Home. He was born on April 20, 1936, in the Sandy Community, to Carl Hanes and Juanita Robertson Hanes.

Blanton married the love of his life, Marilyn Jo Gantt, on June 2, 1957, in Bonham, Texas. Together, they built a life centered on love, family, faith, and service to their community.

He was a proud graduate of Texas A&M University, earning his degree in Animal Husbandry in 1958. A proud veteran, Blanton served his country as a Captain in the United States Air Force. Blanton devoted many years to cattle ranching and was the owner of Hanes Equipment Company in Bonham, where he made lasting contributions to the agricultural community.

After his service in the Air Force, he returned to Fannin County to build his herd of high-quality Brangus cattle. He was awarded the honor of being named Agriculturalist of the year in 2003 by the Texas House of Representatives. He served as a member and president of the Bonham ISD School Board and the White Shed Water Supply Corporation.

Blanton was a man of deep faith and dedicated service to the Lord. He served as a Deacon at Sandy Baptist Church for more than 50 years, faithfully serving his church and community throughout his life.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Juanita Hanes, and his son, David Lee Hanes.

Blanton is survived by his beloved wife of 69 years, Marilyn Hanes; his son, Wayne Alan Hanes, of Ravenna; his granddaughters, Mary Emily Hanes, Margret Elise Hanes, and Jessica Leigh Hanes Pasquale and her husband, Dr. John Pasquale; his sisters, Marlene Hayes and Rexene Hanes; along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who will cherish his memory.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, at Sandy Baptist Church 3130 CR 1115 Ravenna, Texas, with Bro. Ronnie Ball officiating. Visitation will begin at 1:00 p.m., one hour prior to the service. Burial will follow at Sandy Cemetery.

To share a memory or leave an online condolence, please visit www.coopersorrells.com.