Billy Lane Blankenship

Billy Lane Blankenship 102, of Lisman, KY passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of faith, service, music, and deep love for family and friends. Billy was a farmer at heart and also worked in the coal mines, providing for his family through years of honest, hardworking labor. He was a lifelong member of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Lisman, KY, where he served as an Elder and lead the Choir. He proudly served his country in the 71st infantry during WWII and was honored as the oldest WWII veteran in Webster County, KY. Billy spent the last 10 years of his life at Palmer Place Assisted Living, where he was lovingly cared for and deeply appreciated by the many special residents and staff who became like family to him. Known for his quick wit and love of telling jokes, Billy brought joy wherever he went. Singing was one of his greatest pleasures, and his songs-along with his laughter-will be fondly remembered by all who knew and loved him. He was the son of the late William Bryan and Eva Lane Blankenship, he was preceded in death by his wife of 71 years, Stella Blankenship, and 3 siblings Earletta Skinner and Leroy and Arden Blankenship. Billy and Stella made their home on their cherished farm, Mockingbird Hill, in Lisman-a place filled with family memories, laughter, music, and lifelong friendships. His life was rich with church, music, family, and friends, which remained at the center of everything he did. Survivors include his 2 daughters Eva Jane(Butch) Edwards of Clay, KY and Vicki(Ken) Rubenacker of Dixon, KY; a half-sister Rayma Bramschreiber of Owensboro, KY; 5 grandchildren Andrea(George) Wunderlich, Robbie Edwards, Paul(Sarah) Edwards, Alauna(Jon) Friskics and Brennan(Kelsey) McMillen; 8 great-grandchildren Tyler Wunderlich, Austin Wunderlich, Tori Davidson, Colten Edwards, Haley Edwards, Briley Edwards, Annsley Edwards and Clara Friskics; 8 great-great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday January 7th, 2026 at 11am at Townsend Funeral Home in Dixon, KY. Minister/Great-grandson Tyler Wunderlich will officiate the service. Burial will be in Lisman Cemetery in Lisman, KY. Fort Campbell Honor Guard will provide Military rites at the graveside. Visitation will be from 4pm-7pm on Tuesday and from 10am until service time on Wednesday at the funeral home. The family would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to his devoted caregivers-Anna, Michelle, Marcy and Brookelyn-and to his hospice nurses, Sarah, Rea and Lawna for their compassion, kindness and loving care. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to St. Anthony’s Hospice 2410 S. Green St. Henderson, KY 42420 or Lisman Cemetery Fund c/o Clyde Burnett 451 Jim Villines Road Dixon, KY 42409. Online condolences can be made at www.townsendfuneralhomeinc.com