In Loving Memory of: HD Blankenship

HD Blankenship was born in Bengal, Oklahoma to Harrison and Cecil (Crims) Blankenship. He passed away in Wilburton, Oklahoma on January 12, 2026.

Affectionately known as “Pa” to his children, grandchildren, and chosen family, HD always had a smile and a quick wit about him. He had no hobbies except working and always seemed to run into someone he knew—or knew their family. He was deeply loved by his community, where he worked his entire life, often holding multiple jobs at one time. HD worked at Pate’s Grocery as a butcher, both banks in Wilburton, Waldrop Funeral Home, repairing refrigerators and air conditioners for anyone who needed it, painting on weekends, and his “real” job, where he served in many capacities for over 40 years at Eastern Oklahoma State College. He was a

member of Red Oak First Baptist Church and a member of the Red Oak Fraternity Masonic Lodge.

He was preceded in death by his wives, Norma Blankenship and Phyllis Blankenship; sons, Joe Thornburg and Howard Blankenship; daughter-in-law, Leah Moody; granddaughter, Amy Blankenship; great-grandson, Tristan Blankenship; brothers, Donald Blankenship and Johnny Blankenship; and sisters, Vesta Wooten and Doreatha Scholer.

He is survived by his daughter, Thelma Fletcher of Wilburton; sons, Clint and Tammy Blankenship of Council Hill, Randy Moody of Red Oak, Poncho and Angie Moody of Red Oak; daughters-in-law, Jennifer Blankenship of Red Oak and Joyce Thornburg of McAlester; sister, Dorothy and Don Wright of Ramona; sister-in-law, Margie Blankenship of Dallas; along with 11 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, and 3 great-great-grandchildren, numerous nieces and nephews, and a special loved one, Betty Lowder.

Pallbearers include Vaughn Blankenship, Shawn Blankenship, Trey Blankenship, Redick Blankenship, Adam Coleman, and Travis Moody.

Honorary pallbearers include Jentzen Coleman and Tyius Blankenship.

A viewing will be held from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 15, 2026, at Waldrop Funeral Home.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, January 16, 2026, at Peachland Cemetery in Bengal, Oklahoma, with Rev. Johnny Montgomery and Rev. Willard Frances officiating.

Services entrusted to Waldrop Funeral Home.