Loretta Blankenship Martin
Loretta Mae Blankenship Martin, a resident of Pearisburg, Virginia, and a cherished pillar of her community, passed away peacefully on January 25, 2025, at the age of 83. Born on September 19, 1941, in Virginia, Loretta was a beacon of love and kindness throughout her life, touching the hearts of all who knew her.
Loretta devoted her professional life to caring for others as a dedicated Home Health Care Aide with Human Touch. Her compassion and warmth were a comfort to many families, and her commitment to her work reflected her deep-seated belief in the value of service to others. Loretta's caring nature extended well beyond her professional life; she was actively involved in her church, where she found great joy and fulfillment in her faith. Reading her Bible and attending services were among her most cherished activities.
Family was the cornerstone of Loretta's life. She is survived by her loving sons, Carson "Chuck" Martin, and Jerry Martin (Michelle); her daughter, Tonya Burton; and her adoring grandchildren, Eric "Bubba" Burton (Kristi), Jason "Macky" Burton (Katie), Joshua Martin (Hannah), Adam Burton (Tiffany), Jerry Martin Jr, Justin Martin (Destiny), Brandon Martin, Devin Martin (Kimberly), Kevin Martin (Ashley Riddle), and Catlin Martin (Lauren). Loretta was also a proud great-grandmother to 21 great-grandchildren, each of whom brought her immeasurable joy.
Loretta's siblings, Larry Blankenship (Carleena), and Randy Blankenship (Fairley), along with her sister, Doris Lindsey, will hold dear the memories of their sister's unwavering love and support. Loretta's best friend, Brenda Sarver, will fondly remember their deep bond and countless cherished moments together.
Preceding Loretta in death were her parents, Marvin Blankenship and Mary Louise Hare Blankenship; her brothers, Kenneth and Harold Blankenship; and her son-in-law, Bobby Burton. Their memories and the love they shared with Loretta will continue to live on through the stories and traditions of the family.
As a grandmother, Loretta was unparalleled in her affection and pride for her grandchildren. She was famously known to say that her grandchildren could do no wrong, especially her beloved "Bubba." Her unwavering support and encouragement were the hallmarks of her role as the family matriarch, and her legacy of unconditional love will continue to inspire her family for generations to come.
The family will receive friends at a time of visitation on Tuesday, January 28, 2025 from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM at Kendall Funeral Home. A Funeral Service will be conducted on Wednesday, January 29, 2025 at 11:00 AM in Kendall Funeral Home with Pastor John Thornsberry officiating. Funeral services will conclude at Angels Rest Memorial Gardens where she will be laid to rest. A guestbook is available to send condolences to the family by visiting www.kendallfuneralhome.com. The staff of Kendall Funeral Home are honored to serve the Martin family.
