Karen L. (Thompson) Blankenbaker

Karen L. Blankenbaker, 74, of Jeffersonville, IN. passed away at home on Friday, September 21, 2018 after a long battle with cancer. Karen was the daughter of the late Amos and Gertrude Thompson of Jeffersonville, IN.  Karen was a lifelong member of St. Luke’s United Church of Christ in Jeffersonville. Karen’s life was her family.  She loved being present for every family event. She had many hobbies. She was never without her camera and was considered the family photographer. She loved gardening and could make anything grow.  She was full of life and fought until her last breath.  She did not fight because she was afraid to die; she fought because she was not ready to leave her family.  She had more work to do. Her strength and grit was an inspiration to many.  Everyone should celebrate her life, remember her lessons and example and never forget her love and commitment to her family, God and those that she loved.

She was proceeded in death by her husband of 31 years and one and only love, Morris “Sonny” Blankenbaker, brother, Charlie Irvin Thompson. Brother in laws, Clarence Arbuckle, Paul Stone, Sister in law’s, Carol Stone and Carol Blankenbaker.

Karen is survived by three children, Julie Thornberry (Jeffery), Stephen Blankenbaker (Stephanie), Rhonda Edwards (Gary), 12 grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren and siblings Amos David Thompson Jr. (Jacque), Patrica Brendle, Mary Arbuckle, Michael Thompson (Sherry), Debarah Watson (William).  Brother and sisters in law, Patrica Eckert (Fred), LaVetta Beaver (Phil), Ronnie Blankenbaker and a several nephew’s, nieces and extended family. 

Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Thursday, September 27, 2018 at the Garr Funeral Home in Sellersburg with interment to follow at Graceland Memorial Park in New Albany. Visitation will be held on Wednesday from 2:00 P.M. until 8:00 P.M and on Thursday from 9:00 A.M. until the time of the service at the funeral home. Memorial Contributions can be made to St. Luke’s United Church of Christ (329 Walnut Street, Jeffersonville, Indiana 47130)