Prentice Loraine Blankenship

Prentice Loraine Blankenship, 96, passed away peacefully on December 20, 2025, in San Diego, California. A devoted family man, thoughtful storyteller, and lifelong learner, Prentice lived a life rooted in loyalty, curiosity, and quiet strength.

He was born on October 13, 1929, in Mossy Bottom, Kentucky—part of the Coal Run Village in Pike County—to Hiram Blankenship and Hessie Davis Blankenship. Raised in humble beginnings, Prentice carried with him the values of hard work, perseverance, and integrity throughout his life. He later made his home in California, spending the majority of his years in Sacramento before settling in San Diego.

Prentice proudly served his country, enlisting in the United States Airforce on December 28, 1950. He served four years in the Dental Corps, stateside, and was honorably discharged on December 7, 1954. His service reflected the same quiet dedication that marked every chapter of his life.

On May 16, 1959, Prentice married Edna Hoopiiana Keao, the love of his life. Together they built a home grounded in commitment and care. Edna preceded him in death, and he carried his love and her memory with him always.

Prentice is survived by his son, Mark Blankenship, and daughter-in-law, Debbie Blankenship; his daughter, Lisa Holder; and his grandchildren, Richard, Steven, Alexia, and Katherine. He was also deeply proud of his great-grandchildren: Thomas, Rupert, Ivy, Sean, and Sheanee. He is additionally survived by his half-siblings, Sandra Stiener and Randy Blankenship.

He was preceded in death by his sisters Geraldine, Lazelle, Evelyn, and WillaMae; and brothers Medrow, Lionel, Larry, and Kenneth.

Prentice was known as an honest, loyal, and deeply committed family man. He was honorably commissioned as a Kentucky Colonel. He loved to write and never stopped creating—well into his later years. He found joy in baseball, music, and classic western films, and he had a lifelong appreciation for storytelling in all its forms. At the age of 77, he

performed on stage as Dap in the musical Camelot. At 93, he began writing a coffee table book, and at 94 he authored a poem he later copyrighted. At 95, he began turning that poem into a song. His children and grandchildren are committed to continuing this work and bringing his creative vision to life.

Prentice’s life was defined not by grand gestures, but by steady devotion, curiosity, and love. He leaves behind a legacy of resilience, creativity, and family that will continue to echo through generations.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Society for the Blind in Sacramento, in honor of Prentice’s life and passions. https://societyfortheblind.org/get-involved/ways-to-give/