In Loving Memory of Howard Blankenship

Howard D. Blankenship, 54, of Red Oak, Oklahoma passed away Thursday, June 15, 2023, at his home surrounded by his loved ones.

Visitation will be held from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. Monday, June 19, 2023 at First Baptist Church Red Oak.

The funeral service will be 11:00 a.m. on Monday, June 19, 2023, at First Baptist Church Red Oak with Bro. Johnny Montgomery and Bro. Mike Bush officiating. The burial will follow at Red Oak Cemetery under the direction of Waldrop Funeral Home.

Pallbearers will be Cody Parker, Johnny Montgomery, Jerry Don Lessel, Jimmy Booth, Matt Denny, and Freddie Midgley.

Honorary Pallbearers will be Bill Garner, Gordon Bell, Marvin Montgomery, Cole Denny, Coy Denny, Clay Denny, Steve Halstead, and DeWayne Mankin.

Howard was born on April 24, 1969, in Poteau, Oklahoma to HD and Phyllis (Moody) Blankenship. He married Jennifer Lemmons on March 7, 1997.

Howard graduated from Wilburton High School in 1987. He started working in the oil field industry after high school, working his way to vice president of field operations for Panther Energy.

Howard loved nothing more than God and sharing the gospel with everyone. He was very bold and outspoken about his Savior Jesus Christ. He was known for never meeting a stranger. He enjoyed talking and joking with everyone he met. He was very quick-witted and always had a funny comeback to say. His grandbabies were his pride and joy, and he was the best Palzey to them. Some of his interests were riding horses, roping and hog hunting with his friends, ranching, taking care of the cows, and serving in the church. He had a love for all people. God blessed him with a generous heart, making him the most generous and giving person. He was a great son, husband, dad, brother, Palzey and friend.

Howard is survived by his wife of 26 years: Jennifer Blankenship; daughter: Bethany Snell and husband, Rodie; daughter: Emily Todd and husband, Cody; daughter: Alison Fowler and husband, Craig; parents: HD and Phyllis Blankenship; Grandchildren: Paisley DeWitt, Adley Todd, Jace Todd, and Brynly Snell: siblings: Clint Blankenship and wife, Tammy, Thelma Fletcher, Ponch Moody and wife, Angie, and Randy Moody; sister-in-law: Joyce Thornburg; 4 nieces; 5 nephews; and a host of other family and friends.

He is preceded in death by: Lester and Martha Moody, Harrison and Cecil Blankenship, Bob Wilson, Norma Blankenship, and Joe Thornburg.