Mr. Gerald Eugene "Gene" Blankenship

Gerald Eugene Blankenship (Gene), age 84, passed away on Thursday, January 30 at his home in Auburn surrounded by his family.

Visitation will be held at Lakeview Baptist Church, Auburn, Alabama from 1:00 to 2:00 pm in the sanctuary on Monday, February 3^rd with the funeral following at 2:00 pm with Rev. Al Jackson and Rev. Cliff Knight officiating.  Graveside services will immediately follow at Memorial Park Cemetery with John Dale Rector officiating.

Gene was born on July 5, 1935 in Tallapoosa County, Alabama to Herbert and Arrie M. Blankenship. He graduated from Benjamin Russell High School in 1953 and began his career with the State of Alabama. He spent the last 37 years of his career with the State of Alabama Revenue Department where he was affectionately called “Mr. B”.  He was a faithful member of Lakeview Baptist Church where he served as treasurer for 27 years. He, also served as a deacon of the church and on The Lord's Supper Committee.  He and his wife, Barbara served for over a decade on the Auxiliary for East Alabama Medical Center.

He is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Barbara of Auburn, two daughters, Karen Mills (Van) of Baxley, GA and Kathy Harrell (Allen) of Atlanta, GA, three grandchildren Erin Mills of New York City, NY, Scot Shepherd (Bridgett) of Buford, GA, and Matthew Mills of Baxley, Ga as well as four great-grandchildren, Hayden, Liam, Nixon and Margot Shepherd of Buford, GA. Also, surviving are a special sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Belinda and Wayne Daugherty of Dadeville, Alabama as well as numerous nieces and nephews who have a special place in our hearts.

Flowers are appreciated or donations may be made to The Lakeview Baptist Church Benevolence Fund.  1600 E. Glenn Avenue, Auburn, AL 36830.