Debra Jean Whitby Blankenship went home to her Lord on June 16, 2026. She was born to James Earl and Inetta Whitby on April 22, 1955, and was 71 years old.
She was married for 52 years to Jack Watson Blankenship Jr. She was preceded in death by her father, James Earl Whitby and big sister, Wanda Turner.
In addition to her husband, she is survived by one son, Eric Neal Blankenship (Laura) and two granddaughters, Nichole and Cameron. She is also survived by her mother, Inetta Epps, and two sisters, Susan Liming and Brenda Russ, one brother, Danny Ray Whitby.
Debra worked as a braiding machine operator at Franklin Braid Manufacturing for 32 years. She enjoyed working in her yard with the many beautiful flowers. Another favorite activity was going fishing with her husband, especially when she caught the bigger fish. Most of all she enjoyed spending time with her beloved son, Eric and her two precious granddaughters, Nichole and Cameron.
A visitation will be held on Monday, June 22, 2026, at Echols Funeral Home Chapel starting at 1:00pm. A funeral service will immediately follow starting at 2:00pm. Interment will follow at Emporia Cemetery with Pastor Doug Barber officiating.
To send flowers or plant a tree in memory of Debra Jean Blankenship, visit the Tribute Store.
Previous Events
Visitation
22
Jun
806 Brunswick Ave.
Emporia, VA 23847
Service
22
Jun
806 Brunswick Ave.
Emporia, VA 23847
