Lillian Mason Blankenship, Raymore, MO passed away peacefully October 22, 2010. Born on 12/15/1928 in Kansas City, she was the daughter of George and Lillian Mason. After graduating from North East High School she began working for ATT and studied engineering at the University of the Kansas City where she met James H. Blankenship. They were married on January 24, 1958. They made their home in Grandview, MO for 40 years, before moving to Raymore in 1999. In 1970 Lillian joined Mid-Continent Public Library in Grandview where she became Assistant Librarian in charge of the Children's Reading Program. She enjoyed her career and took great pride in fostering the love of reading to countless children and patrons. Her summer reading programs were always special. She retired in 1994. When asked how to spell a word, her answer was 'D-I-C-T-I-O-N-A-R-Y.' She was often called to judge Debate and Forensics competitions, review Children's books, and were active in many community programs. She and her husband, James, were founding members of St. Mathew's United Presbyterian Church, Grandview. She loved music, opera, ballet and enjoyed gardening, outdoor activities and, most of all, her family. She could always offer a different perspective and was accepting of others. She exhibited great empathy and support to those in need. A woman of small stature with an enormous character, she was an inspiration to many. She was preceded in death by her parents, and a sister, Margaret Bracken. She is survived by a sister, Kathy Stine, brother, George Mason, and by her loving husband of almost 53 years who joined her October 24, 2010, their children and grandchildren.

James Harold Blankenship, Raymore, MO , passed away October 24, 2010, with his family present. He was born on 05/25/1032 in Rockport, MO, the son of John and Hazel Blankenship. After graduating from high school in Kansas City, where he was in ROTC, he entered the Army Reserves. While serving active duty with Special Services in 1952 he earned his 'Airborne Wings' and spent time in Germany where he had to learn to ski in the Alps after jumping out of an airplane. He loved God and County and was proud of his military service. When he returned to civilian life he worked in construction and was lead mechanic for a Midget racing crew. He enjoyed a fast car, a brave, but gentle, dog and a good horse. After meeting Lillian Mason, he settled down, won her heart, and married her, the love of his life, on January 24, 1958. During their courtship they both took flying lessons. Jim continued the thrill of flying and earned his license. They later owned a Cessna 172 which they used to take many adventurous trips. In 1960 he went to work for Western Electric as a Millwright and was active in the union as a Union Steward. He later became a Supervisor. After retiring in 1990 he started a home inspection company, Best Inspection. He was a founding member of St. Mathews United Presbyterian Church, served both as a Deacon and Elder and set the cornerstone to the new Sanctuary. He served as a director with the Conservation Federation of Missouri for many years. Some his accomplishments while in that role were the early formation of the Katy Trail and the passing of the Conservation Sale Tax Initiatives. He could fix anything, build beautiful furniture, was an avid sportsman and fisherman, was a member of Deer Creek Sportsman's Club and loved the bounty of Nature. He would remind us to 'measure twice, cut once', savor the first ripe tomato and enjoy each day. iHe Jim was preceded in death by his wife Lillian Blankenship two days prior to his passing, his parents, his brother, Jack, and his sister, Lucille.

Jim and Lillian Blankenship , together forever, are survived by their children, John Blankenship, Nancy Baalman, (Maurice) and Grandsons, John and Jacob Baalman, several nieces, nephews and a host of friends. Our parents gave us a Deep Faith in God, Love of Family, Value of Service to Community and Country, and an Appreciation of Nature. They taught us to enjoy the gifts we are given, to relish each day and to always remain steadfast and loyal. We were truly blessed to have had them as Mom and Dad, Grandma and Grandpa. Services will be held at Cullen Funeral Home Chapel in Raymore, MO on 10/28/2010 at 6:00 pm. Burial will be held at a later date in the Rockport Cemetery, Rockport, MO. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Conservation Federation of Missouri, or Grace Hospice in care of Cullen Funeral Home.

ARRANGEMENTS; CULLEN FUNERAL HOME, RAYMORE, MISSOURI (816)322-5278