Mary Esther Blankenship

Mary E. Blankenship, age 85, passed away peacefully at her apartment on August 2, 2026.

She was born December 8, 1940, to the late Donald and Irene (Clausen) Meacham in Omaha, NE. Mary graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School and then earned an associate's degree. Mary was a member of First Christian Church for over 40 years and was currently attending Compass Christian Church. She co-founded For God's Children International that took clothing and medical supplies to Romania orphanages. She and her late husband, "Buster" enjoyed many cruises that he'd won as salesman of the year. Mary enjoyed her time residing at Prime Square and looked forward to morning coffee. Earlier in her life, she was active in the Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, and Girl Scouts for two generations. She'd even been a member of the Council Bluffs Archery Club.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Walter E. "Buster" Blankenship Sr.; sisters, Sally Buckingham, Catherine Simmons, Linda Miller, and Debra Schram.

Mary is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Walter E. "Ty" & Sue Blankenship Jr.; grandchildren and great grandchildren; nieces, nephews, and a host of other family and friends.

Private family services will be held.