James (Jim) Blankenship

James (Jim) Blankenship, age 85, passed away on Friday March 7, 2025. He was born December 23, 1939 to James (Bob) Blankenship and Wilma Lindsey Blankenship in Van Buren, Arkansas.

Jim retired from the United States Air Force as a Master Sergeant. He enjoyed his work as an Avionics Maintenance Technician on the B-52 D model bombers. After he retired from the Military service he went to work as an editor of the technical publication manuals for the F-16 fighter plans.

Jim was raised in a Christian home and was a member of Emmanuel Baptist Church in Pittsburg. He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Diane Fleming Blankenship; daughters, Linda (Mike) Scott and Jamie (Greg) Huebner; grandchildren, Lindsey (Jake) Angell, Casey Hawkins, Josh (Christie) Huebner,; great-grandchildren, Madison Angell and Gavin Angell, Hunter, Logan, and Mason Huebner; brother, Curtis (Vicki) Blankenship; along with numerous nieces and nephews and their families.

He is preceded in death by both of his parents and a sister Barbara Lyle.

Jim loved his family and friends and his country. He was most comfortable in the outdoors and happiest with a fishing pole in his hands. He was a natural athlete. He was always willing to help anyone who needed it. He will be missed.

Since his family and friends are scattered far and wide memorial services will be held in the near future here in Pittsburg.