Kathleen D. Blank

Kathleen DeShazo Blank, a woman of profound faith and a witness to a century of history, was called home to heaven on March 14, 2026. She passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by the family she spent a lifetime nurturing, just four days shy of her 102nd birthday. Born on March 18, 1924, to Calvin and Jessie DeShazo. Kathleen was the youngest of five children.

She is preceded in death by her siblings: Imogene Holland, Claude DeShazo, Grace Kennon, and Edwin DeShazo. 

As a centenarian, Kathleen’s life served as a bridge between eras. Raised during the challenges of the Great Depression, she saw the world transformed by several wars and the birth of nearly all modern technology. Through every decade of change, she remained a steadfast pillar of Christian faith. A lifelong, devoted member of the Church of Christ, Kathleen’s devotion never wavered; even in her final days, she attended services virtually, taking communion alongside the congregation every Sunday. Her life was an echo of her favorite hymn: "There is a God, He is alive, In Him we live and we survive." Kathleen’s greatest earthly joy was her family. 

Her influence blossomed through the generations, from her five children, James Blank, William Blank, Karen Moore, Janet Huffman, and Rebecca Carmack, to a vast legacy of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. Beyond her role as a matriarch, Kathleen was known for her sharp wit, her silly sense of humor, and a spirit that was both strong and stoic. 

Many who met her in her later years were struck by her incredible memory and her vibrance; she remained sharp and funny, famously possessing beautiful skin that made her appear decades younger than her age. She was a gifted friend who nurtured deep connections throughout her 101 years, leaving behind a family and a community that were made better simply by knowing her. 

John 11:25-26 25 Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: 26 And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this? 

She will forever be loved and missed until our heavenly reunion.

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