Jerry Blankenship

Jerry was born on February 19, 1955, to Goble and Lahoma (Sloane) Blankenship in Williamson, West Virginia.  He was the oldest of seven siblings, and grew up in Columbus, Ohio.

Jerry had a full career in the USAF, retiring after 23 years as a MSGT.  He spent most of his time at Edwards AFB, California.  

Jerry kept his world small.  He was a wonderful Dad to his wife Marsha's children, Alicia and Jacob and loved the grandchildren, Emily, Kaitlyn, Hannah, and Valerie.  He enjoyed working on his cars, playing guitars he made by hand, listening to classic rock and roll music, and watching old military movies and documentaries.  He longed to visit New Mexico again, which was always one of his favorite places.

Jerry was predeceased by his parents, Goble and Lahoma Blankenship, sister, Janet (Blankenship) Hypes, brother Thomas Blankenship, parents-in-law, Coy and Fern Upshaw, brother-in-law, Barry and wife Glenda Upshaw.

He is survived by his wife Marsha (Upshaw), together for 33 years, his children by all respects, daughter, Alicia (Brian) Elkins, son, Jacob (Amanda) Marsh, grandchildren, Emily, Kaitlyn, and Hannah Elkins, and Valerie Marsh, sister, Kathie (Kin) Lawson, brother, Goble Jr. (Tammy) Blankenship, brother, John Blankenship, and brother, Gary Blankenship, brother-in-law, Doug (Cheryl) Upshaw , and nieces and nephews.

Special thank you to all the kind people from Arkansas Hospice that took such care and supported us through this difficult time.

Jerry requested no service.  If you care to provide a donation in his memory, please remember Arkansas Hospice, St. Jude's Hospital, or the Ronald McDonald House Charities.

Arrangements by Arkansas Cremation, 10515 W Markham St, Ste B1, Little Rock, AR 72205.  

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www.arkansascremation.com