Madalyn Blanton

In Loving Memory of Madalyn Blanton (Weghorst/Mussallem) February 23, 1953 – April 14, 2025 Madalyn Blanton, a woman of extraordinary beauty, brilliance, and grace, passed away on Monday, April 14, 2025. Her presence, both elegant and strong, left a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of knowing her. Madalyn graduated with honors from Flagler College in St. Augustine, earning her Bachelor of Science in Psychology. Early in her career, she served as a dedicated dental hygienist, caring deeply for the people she worked with and for. But it was through her deep well of creativity and entrepreneurial prowess that she found her true calling. In 1986, Madalyn founded Madalyn’s Jewelry, a luxury custom jewelry design studio that she built from the ground up with impeccable taste and a fierce dedication to her craft. The studio remains open today, a living testament to her artistry, vision, and legacy. Beyond her professional success, Madalyn was a woman of many passions. She loved the beach and spent countless days soaking up the Florida sun. A devoted gardener, she nurtured her herbs and spices with care and loved incorporating them into the elaborate meals she prepared. Cooking was another of her many gifts—no cuisine was out of reach, and her dinner parties were beloved events filled with laughter, warmth, and exquisite flavors. Madalyn was a devoted Florida Gators fan and cherished Saturdays spent cheering them on. Her favorite place to unwind was the family beach house, surrounded by those she loved most. She is preceded in death by her parents, Dolores Weghorst (Savage) and Richard “Dick” Weghorst. She is survived by her loving husband Donald Blanton; her daughter, Dr. Erica Elannan; her cherished grandchildren Alexis (12) and Christian (9) Bigos; and her loyal Yorkie, Ronald Reagan. She also leaves behind her beloved siblings Barbara Shope (Willard Shope), Dale Koukos, and Richard Weghorst (Yvette Sheffield); step-daughter Dr. Brittany Knight (Caleb Knight); step-grandchildren Landon, Cayden, and Brycen Latimer, Easton, Kyla, and Jada Knight; and a large extended family of nieces, nephews, and dear friends who will carry her memory with them always. Madalyn was loved by all and will be deeply missed. Her deep, steel-blue eyes and fierce spirit lit up every room she entered—and her legacy will continue to shine in the lives she touched and the beauty she created. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 3rd, 2025, at Forest Meadows Cemetery-Central, 4100 NW 39th Ave, Gainesville, FL. Services will be officiated by Kevin Griffin. The family will receive friends beginning at 10:00 a.m., prior to the service. Arrangements are by Forest Meadows Funeral Home and Cemeteries. 725 NW 23rd Ave., Gainesville, FL 32609 352-378-2528 www.forestmeadowsfh.com

Madalyn Blanton

February 23, 1953 - April 14, 2025