CDR Thomas Nelson Blanks, age 88, of Marietta, died Monday, July 12, 2010. A graveside service will be 11 a.m., Friday, July 16th with full military honors at Kennesaw Memorial Park Cemetery. CDR Blanks was born in Meridian, MS and had lived in Marietta since 1959. He attended Meridian High School, Mississippi State University and Flight School in Pensacola, FL. He retired as Commander in the U. S. Navy. CDR Blanks was a WW II veteran, a Naval Aviator and retired from NAS Atlanta. He had a distinguished Navy career which included the following - Victory Medal, Presidential Unit Citation, Navy Unit Citation Air Medal, Distinguished Flying Cross, Naval Reserve Medal, Armed Forces Reserve and National Defense Medal. CDR Blanks was a Master Gardener and worked on the Jet Star Program with Lockheed. He was preceded in death by his wife, Gloria Owen Blanks and his parents, Herman and Mary Elizabeth Blanks. He loved his family and friends and enjoyed sharing his life stories. CDR Blanks is survived by his daughter, Audrey Blanks Casey of Marietta; sister, Elizabeth Mokes of Columbus, MS; granddaughter and her husband,Gigi Waldroop Schulte and Joe Schulte; grandson, Michael; niece, Debby Hickey; great nephew, Travis Strait; great, great niece, Alyssa Strait. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service on Friday, July 16th at the Kennesaw Memorial Park Mausoleum. Carmichael Funeral Home in Marietta is in charge of the arrangements (770) 424-4924.