David Blanton

David Shawn “Shawn” Blanton Jr. (January 19, 1984 – June 17, 2008) is remembered for his warmth, athletic spirit, and dedication to service. A native of Swain County who cherished his Cherokee heritage, Shawn graduated from Smoky Mountain High School in 2002 where he was active in football, baseball, wrestling, and track. He loved the outdoors — especially fishing and hunting — and shared those passions with family and friends.

After high school Shawn pursued a career in public service and became a member of the North Carolina State Highway Patrol. In two years with the Patrol he earned the respect of colleagues and community alike; he was also the first enrolled member of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians to serve as a North Carolina State Trooper. Shawn’s teammates remembered him for his steady character and his willingness to help others.

Family meant everything to Shawn. He and his wife, Michaela (Layman) Blanton, welcomed their son Brendan Tye (Tye) at the end of May 2008. Shawn’s devotion to his young family, his parents, grandparents, siblings, and extended relatives was evident in every chapter of his life. He coached a girls’ JV softball team at Smoky Mountain High School and stayed connected to his community through local recreation teams and friendships.

Shawn’s life and service touched many. Funeral services were held in Haywood County, with burial at Thomas Cemetery in Whittier. The family requested that memorial contributions be made to the Tye Blanton Fund to support premature infants in his memory.

His memory has been honored by his community in lasting ways, including naming bridges near Canton and in Cherokee in his honor. Those who knew him remember a young man of quiet strength, pride in his heritage, and a deep love for family and community. He is survived by his wife, Michaela; their infant son Brendan Tye; his father David S. Blanton and stepmother Jennifer; his mother Jeanell Youngbird; grandparents; siblings; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Shawn’s life—marked by service, family devotion, and connection to his Cherokee roots—continues to be remembered with respect and gratitude.