Barbara Sue Blankenship

Celebrating Mom’s Life and Faith

With both sadness and gratitude, we share that our beloved mom, Barbara S. Blankenship (nee Swofford), 90, has gone home to be with Jesus on Saturday, October 18, 2025. Her life was an example of faith and love, and we rejoice in knowing she is now embraced by the peace and joy of God’s presence.

Barbara Sue Blankenship (nee Swofford) was born to Lucian and Hattie (nee Fortner) Swofford on June 24, 1935, in Marion, North Carolina. She was one of ten children, four brothers and six sisters. She married Coy Lewis Blankenship on October 5, 1952. Mom raised her four children embracing her role as a homemaker and took pride in raising us with love and care. She taught us to lean on Jesus, to pray together, and to celebrate the blessings found in everyday life.

As a mother, she was our anchor, offering comfort, encouragement, and wisdom rooted in faith. A committed Christian, Barbara was an active member of Middle River Baptist Church during the 50 years they lived in Maryland. She taught children in Sunday School, Girls in Action Mission Group and Vacation Bible School. After moving back to Marion in 2004, she began serving in Concord United Methodist Church and volunteering at the local elementary school.

Visitation will be at Bruzdzinski Funeral Home, 1407 Old Eastern Ave, Essex, MD 21221, Friday, October 24, from 3p to 6p., not just to mourn, but to celebrate the beautiful life she lived, and the eternal hope she shared. We will then have a celebration of life at her home church in Marion, NC on Saturday, November 29th at 11am.

Though we miss her deeply, we rejoice in knowing she rests in the arms of the Lord. Her faith, love, and rosy cheeks will echo in our lives until we meet again. Rest in peace, Mom—your light continues to shine.

Mom leaves behind family and friends who will continue to honor her legacy by loving each other and walking in faith. Mom is survived by many family members: moreover, her sister, Clara Cordell; brother, Dexter “Decky” (Doris) Swofford; sons: Gregory Blankenship and wife Rebecca; Richard Blankenship and wife Cynthia; David Blankenship and wife Teresa; and daughter, Susan Martin and husband Jeffrey Martin; grandchildren: Gregory Coy Blankenship, Jr; Michelle (Ryan) Huebel; Scott (Janna) Blankenship; Jason (Briana) Blankenship; Bryan (Gladys Blankenship; Lisa Blankenship; Emily (Andrew) Johnson; Caleb (Halie) Blankenship; Mark (Summer) Blankenship; Leslie (Tanner) Paul; Jillian Graul; Hayley Martin; 15 great-grandchildren and many nephews, nieces and cousins.

In lieu of flowers, donations to her church in North Carolina are welcome: Concord United Methodist Church, 8066 Linville Dr, Marion, NC 28752.