Edwards Blonts, known as “Butch” to many of his family and friends, passed away in Portsmouth on December 15, 2021. He was born to Edward Jr. and June Thompson Blonts and  a graduate of Granby High School. He was a devoted husband, proud grandfather and a hero to his daughter.  He will be sorely missed.

Young Ed spent much of his childhood and teen years abroad, including England and Turkey, thanks to his father’s role in the United States Navy.  Later he settled in Hampton Roads, although the term settled may not describe it accurately. He liked to move around, finding  homes and projects to his liking in Virginia Beach, on the Peninsula and finally in Portsmouth

Ed enjoyed the company of people and loved to tell stories and hear one in return. He was never at a loss for words, in speech or crosswords.  He never met a stranger, and he was always ready to lend a hand.

A true jack of all trades, and a man of many passions, from his younger years playing  football and tennis, to his time spent on stage, to his wood-working projects that gave him so much joy, Ed was always busy and always successful. 

He made a mark as an innovative entrepreneur, opening Beach Pizza Delivery back in the 80s.  It was one of the first to bring pizza and wings to the doors of folks at the Oceanfront and beyond.  

After that, he managed people and several businesses before retiring to Portsmouth. But he never stopped working.  He was always ready to help family and friends fix an appliance, build a cabinet, or do whatever needed to be done. Many will only have to look around their house to see fine examples of his work. He was very proud of the beautiful furniture he created.  

In addition, he loved to shoot pool.  Many who played in local pool leagues against him will only have to look at slightly empty wallets to remember his skills. 

Ed was preceded in passing by his parents and his brother Chris Blonts. He is survived by Donna Blonts, his wife of 55 years, his daughter Pat Cawley, his grandson Shay Cawley, his sisters Jenny Fortney and Becky Gilbert, and a very sad cat.

He loved animals very much, especially his many feline friends over the years. So in lieu of flowers, the family requests a donation be made in Ed’s name to the Portsmouth Humane Society (portsmouthhumanesociety.org) or your local shelter. 

We would ask you to please remember Ed in your thoughts.  We would ask, but if you knew him we know you will find it hard to forget and will carry him with you in your hearts as will we.  

In celebration of his life, a private memorial for friends and family will be held in January, 2022.