Donald Miles Blakely, 62, of Franklin, formerly of Los Angeles, CA, and Brandon, FL, unexpectedly left this Earth at his home on October 19, 2025

He was the son of Betty Jo Copher Wood of Franklin, and the late Lee Blakely of Santa Monica, CA. In addition to his father, he was preceded in death by a brother, Darren Blakely, uncle, Richard Copher, stepfather, Rupert Wood, and all grandparents.

Don made Franklin his home for almost 20 years and grew to enjoy the slow pace of mountain life, but, as a young man, his true loves were oceans, lakes, and rivers, where he enjoyed swimming, boating, fishing, water skiing, and surfing. He had a close-knit circle of friends and fellow adventurers at Brandon High School; he graduated from there in 1981. Don was a gifted sketch artist and briefly attended art school before returning to his childhood home in southern California, where he lived and worked for 10 years.

Upon returning to FL in the mid 90's, he married and had two children who he loved unconditionally for the rest of his life. The Blakely family unexpectedly lost a son and brother in 1998. After his brother's death, Don struggled, so he eventually came to the North Carolina mountains to relax and find peace of mind, and while here, he learned to savor the serene beauty and quiet calmness of the area. While living in Franklin, he met and fell in love with a single mom, Rexanna Duvall; they had 18 wonderful years together. Her family grew to love Don for his kind and gentle nature, and, most importantly, for his intense love and devotion to her

Don worked most of his adult life in sales and warehouse delivery. For the last 7 years, he worked at Watauga Creek Furnishings, where he prided himself on the work he did and his relationship with the customers and his work family.

In addition to his mother, Jo, spouse, Rexanna, and stepson, Dylan Duvall (Alison), of Atlanta, GA, Don is survived by his daughter, Hannah (Dakota) of Lincoln City, OR, son, Blake, of Salem, OR, his brother, Doug Blakely, of San Francisco, CA, niece, Allie Kruger (Justin), and great niece and nephew, Nova and Orion Kruger, all of San Francisco. He is also survived by an uncle, aunts, and cousins, as well as 3 step siblings and their families.

Though his life was cruelly cut short, Don, with all his many quirks, playful nature, and authentic kindness, made a lasting impression on all those who took time to really know him.

A memorial service will be held at Macon Funeral Home on Saturday, October 25th at 11am. The family will receive friends from 10-11am.

Later, Don's family will respect his wishes that his ashes be returned to Florida to be interred by his best friend and beloved younger brother.

Online condolences can be made at www.maconfuneralhome.com

Macon Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.