Karol Mae Blankenship, also known as Mom and Grandma, departed this earth on May 12, 2024 in Shell Knob, Missouri surrounded by her family.

She was born January 26th, 1937 in Lyons, Kansas, where she also graduated high school and then began her career in real estate and cosmetology. Karol was wonderful at roller-skating and enjoyed spending her time at the local skating rink. Karol lived a life defined by her warmth, generosity, and fierce love for her family.

Karol met the love of her life, Gary, and they began their life together as husband and wife after 3 short months of dating. They loved one another deeply and were married 68 Years. They had two children, Brent and Jill, and worked hard every day of their lives. Gary and Karol enjoyed attending Jill’s tennis competitions, boating on Wilson Lake, traveling with friends, cooking, going to auctions, and hosting many wonderful get-togethers for family and friends.

Throughout her remarkable 86 years of life, Karol touched the lives of many people. She shared a very special bond with her granddaughter, Allison. Above all, her greatest joy in life was her family.

Karol is preceded in death by mother Anna Enberg and father Carl, sister Linea Stewart and husband Dave, and sister Karin Gorman and husband Jesse.

Karol is survived in death by husband Gary Blankenship, sister Kathy Olsen, son Brent Blankenship and wife Karen of Shell Knob, Missouri, daughter Jill Blankenship and Craig Larkin of Berryville, Arkansas, and granddaughter Allison Pedersen of Fayetteville, Arkansas. 

Arrangements are under the direction of White Funeral Home and Crematory.