Karen Kay Blankenship, 81, of Richmond, passed away Saturday, September 28, 2024, at Liberty Hospital.

Karen was born on September 19, 1943, in Norborne, Missouri, the daughter of Alfred Clifton and Marie Elizabeth (Key) Hampton.  She was united in marriage to David Allen Blankenship of Hardin on September 1, 1962, he survives of the home.

Karen is also survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Michele Marie and Kevin Sorrels of St. Augustine, FL; two brothers-in-law, Roy "Sonny" Blankenship and Larry (Peggy) Blankenship; three sisters-in-law, Nancy Gilbert, Lois Blankenship, and Margie Hampton; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers: Robert Alba Hampton and A.C. Hampton, Jr., and two sisters: Rose Marion Newton and JoAnn McGuire.

Karen spent her childhood in Norborne.  She was active in the First Baptist Church there, and she graduated at age 16 from Norborne High School.  She worked for Hallmark Cards and at the Ray County Courthouse before beginning a career with Hardin Savings Association that spanned more than 30 years.

Karen and David lived in Lexington, Missouri, for many years, and retired to the Lake of the Ozarks for several years where they enjoyed boating and golfing, and were very active in the Elks Club in Laurie, Missouri.  They returned to Richmond in 2020 to be closer to family.  Karen was a great cook, she loved to dance with David, she was an avid reader and a football fan.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to Samaritan's Purse – U.S. Disaster Relief in response to Hurricane Helene.They can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home, 507 East Main Street-P.O. Box 190, Richmond, MO 64085.

Memorial Services will be held on Friday, October 4, 2024, at 1:30 p.m. at Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond.  A visitation will be held on Thursday, October 3, 2024, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home.  Inurnment will be held at a later date in Lavelock Cemetery, North of Hardin.  Please remember to share your memories of Karen with the family by visiting our website www.thurmanfuneralhome.com.