August 14, 2009, Margaret Nell Blankenbaker, merely 87 years old, passed away peacefully with her family by her side in Phoenix, Arizona. Born in Memphis, Tennessee, Nell came with her husband and the love of her life, Jim to Mission, Texas right after the war. She and Jim spent almost 60 wonderful years in Mission-working together, raising their daughter; Anne Radack, Ellen Dial and Dee Dee Fincher - contributing to their community and enjoying the company of many many long time friends. Nell was the consummate hostess- gracious, stylish and creative. She passed on to her girls the invaluable gifts of hospitalily, integrity, service, compassion and creativity. She was a patient and loyal Mother-in-law to Tom, Greg and Bruce. She was a fun and loving grandmother to Jim (Kelly), Michael (Jennifer), Craig (Becca), Dana, LIndsey (Rob) and Travis. They will miss her advice, her unwavering love, her humor and her strength. Her great grandchildren Zach, Olivia, Jake and Jocelyn were blessed to get to know their GG and she adored them all. We will miss that Southern belle-that elegant, bright loving woman, who, no matter what the situation, could always turn on a smile and make a stranger feel like the most important person in the world. Her strong faith guided her throughout her life and we are all comforted to know that in death she will be reunited with her beloved Butch (Jim). A funeral Mass will be held Tuesday, August 18, 2009 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Phoenix, Arizona. In lieu of flowers, Nell would love it if you would do something special for someone you love and think of her. Please visit www.hansenmortuary.com to place on line condolences.
Tributes
Anonymous wrote on Aug 19, 2009:
"Dear Anne, Ellen, and DeeDee, Your mom will be missed. She was a very special person. She always had something positive to say about everyone. Whenever I came over to play with you, Anne, your mom was so very kind and always inviting. It was a pleasure knowing her. I know she is sitting up there with our dear Lord. God bless you all, Susan Ulcak"
Anonymous wrote on Aug 19, 2009:
"She was the best! We will always remember our Mission days, the Hill Country cabin days, and the days she spent in the Beachum kitchen "just talking.""
Anonymous wrote on Aug 18, 2009:
"I think of your parents every time I go by the old house on Oak Street where we grew up. What wonderful memories I have of your Mom & Dad. I know you miss your Dad and now your Mom has gone to meet him, just think of the wonderful reunion they will have! Blessings to all and our prayers will be with you and yours."
Anonymous wrote on Aug 18, 2009:
"Dear Ann, Ellen, Dee Dee, and families, We were so sorry to hear about Nell. We missed her and Jim when they left the Valley but know they loved being with you and all the family. All the Jones kids have such great memories of your family and we miss seeing you’al. Times have changed people and those of our parents’ generation were special; I miss them. But we have great memories and they help us get through the hard times. With our deepest condolences and love, Kathy and Randy Reavis"
Anonymous wrote on Aug 17, 2009:
"I am so sorry for the loss of Aunt Nell. My thoughts and prayers are with each of her loving family. I am sure the angels in heaven have led her to true happiness."