Donald Ray Blevins, Sr.

Donald (Don) Ray Blevins, Sr. passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by his family, on Thursday, March 30, 2017, after a courageous battle with cancer.He was born January 30, 1937 in Canebrake, West Virginia, son of Ralph Lennie Blevins and Lillian Osborne Blevins. He was a veteran of the U.S. Navy and worked at the Naval Weapons Station. While working, he earned a degree in Business Administration from Palmer College. After 30 years of service, he retired from the NWS from his position as Budget Officer. Don has been a member of Church of the Nativity since 1959. For ten years, he coached the Nativity girls’ basketball team and won several league championships. He also coached the boys’ baseball teams at the James Island Recreational Center. His favorite hobby was golf and after retirement he could be found at the Charleston Municipal Golf Course at least five days a week. He also had a great love for a game of cards which he shared with many family members and friends. As much passion as he had for the above, his most important treasure was his family, as he loved each one and was so proud of their accomplishments.Since 1969, Don was very active in the Knights of Columbus and held all leadership positions in Council 6250 including Grand Knight. Additionally, he held many positions in the 4th Degree Assembly including Faithful Navigator. In 2011, he was honored to be chosen South Carolina Knight of the Year for his many years of leadership and service to Nativity Parish Council Assembly as well as the community.He is survived by his loving and compassionate wife of 59 years, Beverly Runey Blevins; daughters, Donna Hiers, Debbie Whitehurst, Sharon McLemore (Joseph), Marcy Hunter (Robert); son, Ray Blevins (Becky); grandchildren, Jonathan Hiers, Allyson Hiers, Sara Hunter, Cameron McLemore, Robbie Hunter, Madison Wall, McKenna Blevins, and Elijah Blevins; sisters, Lola Studer and Helen Neeley; and many nieces and nephews.In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his sister Joan Beavers.The family will receive friends from 5:00 until 7:00 PM pm on Monday evening at the James A. McAlister Funeral Home, 1620 Savannah Highway. A Vigil Service will begin at 6:30 pm.A Mass of Christian Burial, with Rev. S. Thomas Kingsley officiating, will be celebrated at 11:00 AM, Tuesday, April 4, 2017, at the Church of the Nativity, 1061 Folly Road, Charleston, SC 29412. A Rite of Committal and Military Honors will immediately follow at Holy Cross Cemetery on James Island.In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Stand Up To Cancer, www.standup2cancer.org.