Barry Dewayne McClanahan Jr.

Barry “BJ” McClanahan Jr., only 33 years old and gone way too soon, passed away in the early morning hours of February 22nd, 2026, at Phelps, Kentucky. 

BJ was born in Pikeville, Kentucky, on January 9th, 1993, to his parents, Barry Wayne McClanahan & Moneka Blankenship.

BJ, as everyone fondly knew him by, was a kind person who would do anything for anyone, always smiling and bringing light to those around him.  Our family never expected to get the phone call that he was gone, and the loss has left us heartbroken.  BJ was loved by everyone who knew him and his kindness touched so many lives.  He was a wonderful soul, always doing his best in life.  His absence leaves a hole in our hearts. 

BJ was preceded in death by his grandparents Earl & Myrtle McClanahan, Sam Charles, and his aunt Veronica Blankenship.

BJ is survived by his mother and father, Barry Wayne McClanahan of Majestic, KY and Moneka Blankenship (Martin Layne) of Phelps, KY; siblings, David Colton Boyd of Gilbert, W.V., Shay (Greg) Spears of Elkhorn City, KY, and half-sister, Misty Edwards of White Pine, TN; children, Isabella, Aliana, Canaan, Samuel, and Jacob, two step daughters, Jaylyn and Shakia; grandmother, Arlene Cline of Phelps, KY and Hayes (Sharon) Blankenship of Woodman, KY; aunts, Betty Marie McClanahan, Missy Combs, and Treva Charles all from Phelps, KY, one uncle, Doug McClanahan, of Majestic, KY; special nieces & nephews, Sydney and Lorie Johnson, and McGarrett Fields; and his companion, Christy Wolford.

BJ is also survived by a host of extended family and friends.

The family welcomes friends for visitation on Thursday, February 26th, 2026 from 6-9 P.M. at the Jones & West Funeral Home located at 37035 State Highway 194 East. 

The funeral service will be held at 1:00 P.M. on Friday, February 27th, 2026 in the chapel with Pastor Odis Blankenship officiating. 

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Jones & West Funeral Home to help with the funeral expense. 

The Jones & West Funeral Home is honored to serve the McClanahan Family.  Our guestbook may be viewed online at www.joneswestfh.com.  

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