Bob was born May 10, 1937, in Summerfield, Oklahoma, to Homer and Eva (Thurman) Blankenship on the family farm. He graduated from Leflore High School in Leflore, Oklahoma, with the Class of 1955. After graduation Bob worked in California, Oklahoma City, and Kansas City, Missouri, where he met Martha "Marti" Richardson, in 1958. They were married in 1959 and became the parents of two daughters, Janet Lynn Blankenship and Lisa Ann Blankenship.
Bob was a long-time member of Pleasant Valley Baptist Church, Carpenters Union Local 61, American Federation of Musicians, and a volunteer with the Girl Scouts of America with his daughters.
He was a professional musician, playing the bass guitar and upright bass for local bands. His range of music included 50s rock and roll, and country and western. He also composed and recorded his own songs under the name "Bobby Blank," and played local shows with nationally known artists including Porter Wagoner and Hank Snow. When given an opportunity to travel with other artists, he chose his family first.
Bob was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers, Finace Blankenship, Bill Blankenship, and Ray Blankenship; and his daughter, Lisa (Blankenship) Wohlford.
Survivors include his wife of 63 years, Marti; his daughter, Janet (David Braud) Blankenship; his grandsons, Alex (Brittany Tawater) Braud and Andy (Rachael) Braud; great grandson, Jaxson Braud; his sister, Wanda (Blankenship) Speck; several nieces and nephews; as well as other family and friends who will miss him.
