Blanche Rachel Perkins

Blanche Rachel Perkins, 86, of Covington, died Monday July 13, 2026 at her residence.

She was born October 23, 1939 in Bath County, a daughter of the late John and Icyphine Shifflett Perkins. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a son, Jerry Keyser; seven brothers; and three sisters.

Blanche retired in 1993 as a bus driver for the Alleghany Highlands School Board after 26 years of dedicated service. She was a longtime member of Temple Baptist Church, the Red Hat Ladies, and Chapter #911 of the Women of the Moose. She also worked for several years as a Certified Nursing Assistant.

Survivors include her children, Kay Hoke (Don Hoyt), Gail Crickenberger, Sherry Keyser, and Michael (Bonnie) Keyser, all of Covington, and Dale (Karen) Keyser of Waterloo, SC; two grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; a brother, Robert Perkins of Covington; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In keeping with her wishes, her body has been cremated.

A celebration of life will be conducted at a later date.

Arritt Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Friends wishing to send condolences online may do so at arrittfuneralhome.com.