Frederick "Freddie" Blankenship, age 80, of Iberia, passed away on Thursday, September 1, 2022, at his home surrounded by his family.  He was born in the Hickory Point Community near Iberia on August 20, 1942, son of the late Ora Jasper and Mattie Carolyn (Waite) Blankenship.  On January 15, 1966, in Jefferson City, Freddie was united in marriage to Diane Hall, who survives at their home.

Freddie had a strong work ethic and was a dedicated family-man.  In addition to being a life-long farmer, he was employed as the Miller County Treasurer and later owned and operated a small engine shop in Tuscumbia.   After retiring, Freddie continued staying busy on the farm raising turkey and cattle.   He was active in his community and was a member of the Tuscumbia Lions Club and served as Charter member for the Miller County Historical Society.

He was devoted to his faith and was a member of Hickory Point Baptist Church, where he led the Sunday night prayer service for many years.  In his spare time, he enjoyed his many pheasant hunts and elk hunting trips to Montana and Colorado.  Freddie's son and grandchildren were the joy of his life.

In addition to his wife, Diane Blankenship, he is also survived by his son, Darin (Lisa) Blankenship; grandson, Brent (BreeAnn) Blankenship; granddaughter, Maddie Blankenship; a step-away-grandchildren, Jeffrey (Kelsay) Ocheskey, Morgan (Shane) Libbert, and Victoria (Sam) Ocheskey; 12 great-grandchildren, Khambel, Teegan, Hayley, Dalton, Mason, Sidney, Bailey, Quinn, Carson, Noah, Issaiah, and Jonah; two brothers, Berry Blankenship and Dale Blankenship; and numerous nieces, nephews, family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brother, Frank Blankenship, and sister, Bonnie Barr.

Visitation will be held from 12 (noon) to 1 p.m., with services immediately following at 1 p.m., on Saturday, September 3, 2022, at Fancher-Rekus Funeral Home in Iberia with Bro. Mac McCully officiating.  Interment will be held in Hickory Point Cemetery near Iberia.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Baptist Children's Home.