Michael A. Blankenship, Jr.

Michael Anthony Blankenship, Jr., passed away suddenly Wednesday, February 18, 2026, from an automobile accident. We are devastated to have such a loving, passionate human being leave us too soon. He is survived by his wife, Maria Blankenship; his mother, Thena Redding; his stepfather, Scott Redding; his sisters, Megan Futch and Makayla Blankenship; his nieces, Emily and Eden; his nephews, Everett and River; and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, and a large group of loving friends. He was predeceased by his father, Michael Blankenship, Sr.; paternal grandparents, Travis Blankenship, and Betty and Jimmy Morris; and maternal grandparents, Otis and Dean Kersey.

A Savannah Native, Michael loved the food service industry, working across various restaurants, bars, and retailers. He loved to meet new people and took serious pride in every job he had, always enthusiastic to learn more, help more, and do tasks the correct way every time. He enjoyed trying new foods, drinks, and also trying new restaurants.

An avid sports fan, Michael loved to watch baseball, hockey, and his overall favorite – darts. His father being a dart player inspired Michael to follow in his footsteps. He joined the Savannah Area Darting Association in 2018. There he played on countless teams, making friends and having fun weekly. Michael would go on to win the League Championship in 2025 with Flight Risk, a goal he carried since joining the association. He would also take his passion farther and play in singles leagues, and joined the Wilmington Dart League in 2025. His passion for darts was endless. He spent countless hours practicing daily to fine-tune his skill and do his part for his team. Michael had high expectations of himself and was always determined to win. His dart family describes him as passionate, with a heart of gold, and the occasional temper when he was not throwing to his satisfaction. He had so much love and warmth for the dart community.

Michael was a person filled with unwavering love for his family and friends. He was fiercely protective of who he loved, defending them at a moment’s notice if the occasion ever arrived. He loved his sisters, mom, and stepdad with all of his heart. He was the same with friendships, cultivating lifelong friendships, such as with his best friend of 29 years, Matt Edenfield.

Michael met his wife, Maria, in August of 2017. They married on May 18, 2024 in Brooklet, GA. As a husband, Michael was endlessly supportive and loving, always a rock during life’s hardships. With open arms, kind words, and a happy smile –Michael will be greatly missed.

Michael will be remembered as a passionate, fiery person, with a heart of gold and helpful attitude to match. He was a hard worker, with determination to always do what he wanted and what he loved. He was a loving son, uncle, and brother, who was always family-oriented. He was a lifelong friend to those he loved, whether that be inside or outside the dart community. He was a wonderful husband to Maria. The feeling of Michael’s absence cannot be overstated.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 am, Saturday, February 28, 2026 at Leefield Baptist Church, 5294 Brooklet-Leefield Rd, Brooklet, GA 30415. Pastor Jerry Rewis will be officiating.

Sauls Funeral Home of Ridgeland is assisting the family with arrangements.