Mary Lee Blanks

Mary Lee Blanks, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, was born on January 23, 1937, in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, to the union of the late Staten and Carrie (Cooley) Calbert. Mary was the matriarch of her family—a woman of strength, grace, and quiet resilience. She was a devoted wife to John L., the love of her life for over 42 years, until his passing in 1997, and a nurturing, kindhearted mother to their five children. Her sweet spirit and heart of gold touched everyone who knew her.

On Sunday morning, April 27, 2025, Mary received her heavenly wings and passed away peacefully at home. After a lengthy illness, a recent hospitalization, and a cherished week of smiles and visits with loved ones, the Lord gently called her home as she slept, whispering, “No more pain, my child.”

Mary’s faith was a cornerstone of her life. She loved the Lord deeply and found comfort in gospel music—her favorite song being “Precious Lord.” Before her health challenges, she was an active and faithful member of Pleasant Green Missionary Baptist Church. As one of the church’s original charter members in 1966, she served in the choir and as a dedicated member of the Pastor’s Aide ministry. She also gave her time in service to the Eastern Star organization, reflecting her lifelong commitment to community and fellowship.

After graduating from Rowan High School in Hattiesburg, Mary relocated to Dayton, Ohio, following her marriage. She pursued her passion for bookkeeping by attending several local business colleges and worked at notable institutions including the Treasure Island Supper Club, the Veterans Affairs Medical Center, and the University of Dayton. A proud businesswoman, Mary co-owned Blanks & Sons Trading Post and Mini Market for over 35 years, working alongside her husband and children. She and John L. also served as independent contractors for General Motors and as distributors for the Ohio Liquor Control Commission—establishing themselves as pillars of the Dayton business community.

Mary will be fondly remembered for her warm smile, steadfast support, and her unforgettable cooking. Her sweet potato pies, banana pudding, chicken and dumplings, seafood gumbo, and cornbread muffins were family favorites, known as much for their aroma as their taste. You could always count on a hearty meal and a warm welcome at the Blanks’ home. She also enjoyed fishing, long chats on the telephone, and watching her favorite television programs—including The Price is Right, The Bold and the Beautiful, Jerry Springer, and Fire Country. A loyal Bengals fan, Mary found joy in sports, traveling, and especially visiting her Southern roots and beloved family.

Mary was preceded in death by her beloved husband, John L.; her parents, Staten and Carrie Calbert; three brothers, William, James, and Staten; three sisters, Bertha Allen, Catherine Jones, and Sharon Calbert; her son-in-law, David Dinkins; and two great-granddaughters, Asia Blanks and Danielle Bolden.

She is survived by her loving children: Johnnie “Rocky,” Kimberly Blanks-Dinkins, Donna (John) Simmons, Gregory (Mykala), and Anthony, all of Dayton, Ohio; her devoted siblings: Annie Eaton of Detroit, Michigan; Carrie Zelaya of Gulfport, Mississippi; Marilyn Gandy of Lumberton, Mississippi; and Curtis Calbert of Dayton, Ohio; sisters-in-law, Peggy Hopper of Meridian, Mississippi, and Mildred Calbert of Hattiesburg, Mississippi; her brother-in-law, Wilbert Jones of Meridian, Mississippi; and her dear neighbor, Evelyn Mitchell.

Mary was the proud grandmother of (26) Katina, Johnny, Shawn, Adrienne (Donte), Danisa, Klynn, Juan, Zenobia, John, Tamica, Gregory, Janell, Chataun, Robin, Kadijah, Niesha, Princess, Destiny, Falicia, Latonya, Jamell, Anthony Sr., Mary, Maurice, Kierra, and Antonio; great-grandmother of (43) J’Onna, Eric, Emonie, Ja’Ray, Jazail, Jaumaruia, Serenity, Ja’Marr, Jameir, Jahir, Ashon, Daunte, Anaya, Kai’Dan, John, Zyanne’, Calvin Jr., Aniyah, Darris, Sa’Nina, Nordae, Sommer, Parker, Michael, Aria, Alorah, Ayla, Isaiah, T’Osha, T’ajanae, Jammell Jr., Anthony Jr., Jemyni, Ka’Lia, Jec’el, Vharaoh, Vicere, Destiny, Kieon, Ayla, Emberly, Easton, and Ever; and great-great-grandmother of (3) Amirrah, Amir, and Brecken.

Mary’s legacy also lives on through a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family members, as well as many dear friends—too numerous to name—who will forever cherish the memory of her love, laughter, and unwavering presence.

Special thanks to her caregivers: Jama Perry from Horizon Healthcare; Deoncia Allen and Klynn Blanks from Future Home Healthcare Services; the staff at Miami Valley Hospital; and Ola White.

Funeral service 11 am Thursday, May 8, 2025 at Pleasant Green Missionary Baptist Church, 5301 Olive Road, Trotwood, OH. Visitation 10 am- 11 am at which time family will receive friends. Interment West Memory Gardens. Arrangements entrusted to House of Wheat Funeral Home.

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