Shelby Blankenship

Shelby Fern (Eppling) Blankenship, age 84, went to meet her Savior, Jesus Christ, face to face, on February 15, 2023. Shelby was born on January 18, 1939 in Gap Mills, West Virginia to Benjamin Harrison Eppling and Esther Elizabeth (McClung) Eppling. She lived most of her life in the Halls Community of Knoxville where she was known and loved by many. Shelby was a long-time member of Salem Baptist Church. She was an amazing bowler on the Rolling Pins bowling team at Fountain Lanes for many years and a regular card player with her sweet circle of friends at the Halls Senior Center. She was famous for her Christmas Graham Cracker cakes. Shelby was married to the love of her life, Carl Eugene “Gene” Blankenship, for 46 years, until his death in 2002. She was preceded in death by her parents; Benjamin and Esther Eppling, her baby sister; Lynette, and her brothers; Edward, Levi, Jack, and Ardell Eppling. She is survived by her 6 children; Kenny (Holly) Blankenship, Audrey (Neil) Martin, Penny (Dennis) Wagner, Gary Blankenship, Cindy (Andy) Woodall, and Angie (Dewayne) Harper, 24 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren. Shelby is an example of a life grounded in Christ and well lived. She was a most loved, most fun Mama and Mema. Her love and joy will be greatly missed until we all get to Heaven. There will be a private family gathering with her grandson, Reverend Kenny Blankenship II, officiating.