Keith Dale Blankenship

Keith Dale Blankenship, age 59, of Gatesville, passed away Sunday July 12, 2009 at a local nursing center. Graveside services are scheduled for 10:00 AM Wednesday, July 15, 2009 at Restland Cemetery. Keith was born November 28, 1949 in Clifton, Texas. He was the son of Earl Blankenship and Lovie Jones Blankenship. All through Keith’s Life he referred to everyone as his “friend”. He had a very warm and sunny disposition. Keith never complained for any reason, not even in severe pain. He accepted it as a part of life. As a very young boy he attended a special school for the handicapped in Gatesville operated by Mrs. Evans J. Smith. His mother helped with the school in order to pay his way. He read at a third grade level and did simple math. Keith was especially fond of Farm Tractors and could name all of them he saw. He never met a stranger and never saw color as a barrier. He greeted everyone with a big smile and “Hi”. Because of his mothers and Dad’s failing health he was placed in the Hillside Manor Nursing Home so he could be well taken care of and he was. His mother and dad took special care of him as long as they were physically able. Keith was a very special person and brother to all of us. He was preceded in death by his parents, sister; Nina Clark, brothers; Clyce and Kenneth Blankenship. Survivors include brother; J. D. Blankenship and Glenn Blankenship. The family would like to thank the Staff of Hillside Manor Nursing Home and Vista Care Hospice for their excellent care.