Blaine Dell Porter

Blaine Dell Porter, beloved father, passed away peacefully on Tuesday June 11 2024 at 85 years old. His life was a testament to service, cultural appreciation, and unwavering dedication to his family and community.

Born in Annabella Utah on January 26 1939, son of late Earl and Afton Nebeker Porter. Blaine embarked on a journey that took him across the globe. As a missionary and later as a foreign service officer for the U.S. State Department, Blaine lived and worked in Taiwan, the Philippines, Zambia, and Hong Kong. Fluent in Mandarin and conversant in Japanese and Cantonese, Blaine embraced the languages and cultures of the countries he served with passion and respect.

Blaine was known for his love of culture, travel, art, nature and good food. He had a unique ability to connect with people from all walks of life, building bridges of understanding and friendship wherever he went. His adventures around the world were filled with rich experiences and cherished memories.

Upon retiring, Blaine and late wife Thea spent a year traveling the US before settling in the picturesque town of Grafton, WV. In Grafton, he found a place that he could call home and built a solid foundation of friends and community. His warm personality and genuine interest in others quickly made him a beloved member of the town. Blaine loved his work as a drug and alcohol counselor for Barbour and Taylor County Community Corrections and was an active member in the Grafton Photo Club, Weavers Guild, Arts Council, book club and his beloved Sanga meditation group. 

Blaine is survived by one son Marcus (Michelle), one daughter Maria (Danny), one brother LeRoy (Vonda), three grandchildren Fable, Quinlin, Chris and one great grandchild L.N. Trent. Blaine was predeceased by two wives Aniene Andrus Porter and Thea Anderson Porter, one sister Della Mae Wood (Tom), one daughter Samantha Porter.   He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Blaine's legacy of love, kindness, and cultural appreciation will live on in the hearts of those who knew him. He will be remembered for his adventurous spirit, his dedication to making the world a better place, and his ability to create meaningful connections across the globe.

Blaine’s wishes to be cremated will be honored and a Celebration of Life will be held 1:00 PM Saturday, June 15, 2024 at the Tygart Lake Pavilion, at the dam. Everyone is welcome to attend.  Online condolences can be sent to the family at www.bartlettfuneralhomewv.com Bartlett Funeral Home is honored to serve the Porter family.

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