Leon Frederick Blankenship, Jr. “Butch” began his journey through life on November 28, 1955. He was born to parents Leon Frederick Blankenship, Sr. and Mildred J. Blankenship in Grambling.
At an early age Leon was baptized in Mt. Zion Baptist Church located in Grambling. He was trained up in the right way and learned to always carry God’s word in his heart. He had a beautiful voice and loved to sing. Leon used the gift granted to him from above to sing praises to God as a member of the choir.
Leon was a member of the 4-H Club and received a well-deserved award for the prized cow he raised. He was always a hard worker. He tilled the land, and cared for livestock, all while working side by side with his dad, Leon, Sr. This valuable training taught him how to be self-sufficient and provide for himself and the family.
Leon attended Grambling Lab School and later advanced to Grambling High. During that era, Isaac Hayes was a popular musical icon. One day Leon decided to emulate Isaac’s style and showed up at school sporting his image. His long-hooded dashiki, dark shades, and cool walk left no doubt in everyone’s mind that he was THE Real Black Moses.
Leon furthered his education at Southern University, Baton Rouge where he obtained his B. S. Degree in speech and drama. His fraternal affiliation was with The Alpha Phi Alpha Greek Organization. Leon was tagged with the line name “Beep Beep” this was due to the horn sound of his eye catching, all equipped, sleek golden roadrunner vehicle. During the 1975 Greek Talent Show, his Frat Brothers placed him out front to sing lead. Leon displayed his ‘tenor extraordinaire” vocals singing “Don’t Take Your Love from Me”, By The Manhattans. Backed by the harmony and smooth moves of his line brothers, they brought the house down! The crowd shouted, “Move Over Temptations!” They’ll always remain forever close-knit brothers. Butch was in the audience when Peabo Bryson had a concert on Campus. Peabo randomly passed the mike to him. After hearing Leon blow, Peabo didn’t pass the mike no mo!”
After college Leon enlisted in the Navy and served his country well. He covered many ports, but there was no place like home. Upon returning to the U. S. he resided in San Diego, CA, and finally made Grambling his home once again. Leon became a member of Galilee Baptist Church in Shreveport. Here he found his niche praising God through heartfelt soul inspiring songs.
He worked at Ochsner’s Medical Center in Shreveport. before his retirement. Retirement for him meant continually putting his hand on the plow to get the necessary work done. This meant wherever his services were needed. Butch loved his family and would always leave the door open for connections. Even if it meant the wee hours of the morning.
Although Leon had no biological children, he mentored many. At times his words were firm with a hand to match. He believed if you spared the rod, you spoiled the child. Those of you who survived these sessions know you’re a better person for it today. Remember it hurt him more than it hurt you. He was an intelligent man who fed the word to those under the umbrella of his care. Leon based his lessons of love using the wisdom God provided him with.
Affectionally known to his family as “Butch”, Leon, Brother, Bro Cuz, Friend, he’ll be truly missed. God wants us to see the lighter side and know this. We transfer from apartment to apartment, house to house in our lifetime. Leon has just left his old residence behind to check into a new residence and form in Jesus’ Kingdom. Here on Earth is just a pitstop to get it right. What he’s experiencing is the real thing, “life everlasting!” We’ll love you forever! Butch, we’ll always see you singing your signature song as you “Walk Around Heaven” in Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Leaving To Mourn Leon’s Legacy Of Love And Dedication: Niece~ Teniesha Carter, Grand Nieces, Kamille Carter, Brittani Carter, Nephews, Gabriel Carter, Mason Carter,