Homer Blankenship Sr.

“I am who I am, by the grace of God!” - Homer Blankenship

On July 3, 2025, our beloved Homer Blankenship, 80, passed away peacefully at Pikeville Medical Center. Born on September 11, 1944, in Mud Lick, he was the son of the late John and Retha (Cline) Blankenship.

Homer was a retired surface miner, a job that matched his rugged spirit and strong work ethic. He was a proud member of the U.M.W.A. His commitment and dedication mirrored the long and loving marriage he shared with his late wife, Evelyn (Hatfield) Blankenship, for 51 incredible years. Their bond was a testament to resilience and love, even through the heartbreak of losing their son, Brian Keith Blankenship—a sorrow no parent should endure.

Family and friends knew Homer for his outgoing personality and a wisdom that seemed as old as the Appalachian hills he called home. He could fill a room with his presence, stories, quick wit, and advice. His love for his family was unwavering; he never missed a chance to share a moment or a smile with those he cherished. He was a member of Ike’s Fork Freewill Baptist Church. As a Christian, Homer held his faith close to his heart, finding strength and guidance through our Savior, Jesus Christ. His devotion was evident not just in his words but in the way he treated everyone around him—with kindness, love, and a generous heart.

Homer's greatest achievement was not just his career but the loving family he built and cherished. Despite life's challenges, he found joy in the company of his family and friends. His grandchildren, in particular, were his greatest pride, and he never missed an opportunity to boast about their achievements or share a funny story about their antics.

A man of many passions, Homer had a zest for life that was infectious. He was loud, funny, and wise—a combination that made him the life of any gathering. Whether he was cheering on his favorite NASCAR drivers, enjoying a good Western, or getting caught up in the excitement of a football game, Homer lived life with enthusiasm and expressions that were well-known.

In addition to his parents, wife, and son, Homer was preceded in death by his granddaughter, Kayleena (Blankenship) Lounsbury, and great-granddaughter, Macie Lynell Lounsbury; also by his brothers, Tony Blankenship and Billy Blankenship.

Those left to love and cherish his memory are his sons, Homer (Kristie) Blankenship Jr. and Audie Blankenship, both of Browning Fork, WV; his grandsons, Brandon (Shandi) Blankenship of Hanover, WV, and Bradley (Caylin) Blankenship of Browning Fork, WV; his granddaughters, Melva Brianna Blankenship of Hanover, WV, and Ashley (Jarrett) Cline of Wharncliffe, WV; great-grandchildren, Reagan Davis, Kaybrie Cline, Daxton Blankenship, and Noah Blankenship; his sisters, Addie (Harold) May and Cathy Christian of Browning Fork, WV; his brothers, Enos (Evelyn) Blankenship of Slabtown, WV, and Gleanous Blankenship of Baisden, WV; two sisters-in-law, Truby (Jackie) Thompson of Browning Fork, WV, and Phyllis Smith of Davin, WV; very special friends, Sue Grimmett and Roger White of Bruno, WV and Dave Carter of Gilbert, WV; a special aunt, Nina Faye Cline of Baisden, WV; and a family he considered his own, Carolyn Heath, Brittany (Adam) Hatfield, Hunter Heath, Aybree and Kayson Hatfield, and Allison (Shawn) Blankenship of Hampden, WV. Homer is also survived by a host of other family members and friends who loved him dearly.

Family and friends will gather on Monday, July 7th, 2025, from 6-9 PM with church service beginning at 7 PM at Mounts Funeral Home. Funeral services will be conducted on Tuesday, July 8th, 2025, at 1 PM at the Mounts Funeral Home Chapel. Officiating the services will be Rev. Homer Blankenship Jr., Rev. Jackie Jessie, Rev. Mike Browning, and Rev. James Jessie. Burial will follow in the Carter Cemetery at Browning Fork, WV.  Homer will be carried to his final resting place by family and friends.

As we say goodbye to Homer, we remember him as a loving husband, a devoted father and grandfather, and a friend who could always be counted on. His legacy lives on in the hearts of those who knew him, and while he may be gone, his spirit will forever be a part of our lives.

“But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.” - Isaiah 40:31

“Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.” - Isaiah 41:10

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