It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Edna Marie Blankenship, who left us peacefully on June 13, 2026, at the age of 86. With her loving daughter by her side, Marie departed this world at Northside Villa in Rochelle, Georgia, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, and cherished memories.
Marie was born on March 31, 1940, in the picturesque hills of Logan County, West Virginia, to her parents, Don Pete and Louise (Rozzell) Burgess. From a young age, she exuded warmth and compassion, qualities that would define her life and touch the hearts of all who knew her.
In her early years, Marie worked as a cashier and assistant manager at Nemetz Grocery, a job she loved because it allowed her to interact with her community and form lasting friendships with customers. After moving to Fitzgerald, Georgia, in the mid-1980s, she found fulfillment working as a ward clerk at Dorminy Medical Center. Later, she volunteered there as a Pink Lady, brightening the lives of patients and staff alike with her caring spirit.
On October 30, 1956, in Logan, West Virginia, Marie married her soul mate, Harold E. Blankenship. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and the joy of raising their family. Though Harold and her siblings, Donna Lou Blanton and Lynn Burgess, predeceased her, their memories remained ever-present in her heart.
Marie is survived by her devoted children: sons Lynn, Tony, David, and Larry, and her cherished daughter, Lori Ann McDonald. Her legacy continues through her 13 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren, each of whom she adored and took immense pride in cheering on at every opportunity. She is also lovingly remembered by her many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Marie found joy in life's simple pleasures. She enjoyed playing bingo, challenging herself with word games, and spending quiet hours immersed in a good book. A talented seamstress, she created custom teddy bears, rabbits, Raggedy Ann and Andy dolls, and quilts as treasured gifts for family and friends.
Her kitchen was the heart of her home, a place where she expressed her love through home-cooked meals and the joy of gathering family together. Marie also had a remarkable gift for making others feel remembered and cherished. Whether through a handwritten birthday card, a holiday greeting, or a thoughtful note, her personal touches left a lasting impression.
Marie was a bright light in the lives of those who had the privilege of knowing her. Her unwavering devotion to family, infectious laughter, and generous spirit will be remembered by all who were touched by her presence. She taught us the true meaning of love, resilience, and finding joy in everyday moments.
We find comfort in knowing she has been reunited with her beloved Harold and siblings. We are grateful for the time we shared with her and will carry her memory in our hearts forever.
A celebration of Marie's life will be held at a later date, where family and friends will come together to share stories, laughter, and tears in remembrance of a truly remarkable woman.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Marie's memory to the Fitzgerald - Ben Hill County Humane Society, as an enduring tribute to her generous spirit.
Paulk Funeral Home, Fitzgerald, is in charge of arrangements.