Frances Blankenship

Ann Blankenship was known by many as stubborn, but only in the best sense of the word. Whether she was right or wrong, Ann stood by her beliefs, always with the courage of her conviction. Her strong point of view was matched by her unwavering loyalty and profound compassion for those she loved.
Born Frances Ann Smith in Houston, Texas, on November 13, 1945, Ann was one of the last of the Silent Generation, conceived before the end of World War II. She was the beloved daughter of Cornelia Pearce Smith and Philip B. Smith, and grew up in Houston alongside her brother, Philip Smith, Jr. After graduating from Lamar High School, Ann maintained a deep bond with her mother Cornelia, whom she would later vividly envision waiting for her in heaven as her own final days approached.
Ann attended the University of Texas in Austin with her best friend, Lauris Zeluff, where the two were the original "Thelma and Louise." Ann later moved to Louisiana in the 1970s, where she met her husband, Bob Blankenship, and became a devoted LSU fan. Together, they relocated to Houston, Texas, to begin their married life, and in 1979, Ann's greatest joy arrivedher only daughter, Dawn Blankenship.
Throughout the 1980s, Ann built a successful career in the oil industry, managing payroll and benefits for companies such as Houston Oil and Mineral, Mark Producing, and Global Marine. During these turbulent economic times, Bob and Ann faced the highs and lows of Texas life together, navigating the oil boom and bust, the real estate crash, and the savings and loan crisis. Through it all, Anns resilient spirit and steadfast faith anchored their family.
In her second career, Ann thrived in residential real estate, earning several top producer awards and, perhaps even more importantly, cultivating lasting friendships. She took great pride in her work, and her intelligence and tenacity shone brightly in everything she did.
Anns best friends, Lauris Zeluff, Rhea Latta, and Dottie Tarleton, were constant companions, and together they lived life to the fullest. Whether it was late-night talks around the kitchen table, weekends at the Lake House, beachside barbecues in Galveston, or trips to Las Vegas and New Orleans, Ann was always up for a good time.
Ann's love of country music was a constant, and in 2023, she attended her last Willie Nelson concert in Kansas City, proudly sitting in the front row with a cold Miller Lite in hand. After Bobs passing in 2018, Ann moved from Houston to Dallas to be closer to her daughter Dawn and her two treasured grandsons, Pearce and Reid, who affectionately called her "Annie."
As Parkinsons disease slowly diminished her vitality, Anns desire to be with her loved ones only grew stronger. She could often be seen at Pearce and Reids school functions and sporting events, always perfectly dressed and enjoying the company of friends. She never missed a social event, and her joyful spirit, elegance, and love of life never wavered. With the help of her devoted caregiver and friend, Debra Lewis, Ann was able to maintain her cherished independence.
Ann took pride in presenting her best self to the world. Even when times were tough, she never missed her weekly appointment at the hairdresser, ensuring she was always perfectly coiffed. In her final hours, she wasnt ready to meet the ever-after until her hair was teased, and her lipstick and perfume had been applied. Ann understood that how we present ourselves mirrors our inner strength. She championed the importance of being a strong, independent woman who led with both courage and kindness.
Ann is survived by her daughter Dawn Blankenship, Bill Hennessey, and their children Reid and Pearce Hennessey. She also leaves behind additional familyRobyn Jonas, Margie and Lee Hammett, Renee and Virgil Martinand her grandchildren Trey and Lucy Hammett, Will and Ariel Hammett, Jillian Hammett, Katelyn and James Barnett, Jake and Kodie Martin, and Gage Jonas, along with her great-grandchildren Aubrey, Graham, Parker, Jamison, and Drixie Hammett. Ann is preceded in death by her grandsons Tony Heck and Sam Hammett. Her cherished friends who became family, Kristen Latta, Lexie Zeluff, Carolina Zeluff, and Caroline Kappler, will also carry her memory in their hearts.
Ann entered heaven on September 18, 2024, exactly six years to the day after her dearest husband, Bob, was called home. A devoted follower of Christ and deeply spiritual, Ann will always be remembered for her hopeful spirit, unwavering perseverance, and generous heart. She leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and a life well-lived.
In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests that any charitable donation be made to The Chick Mission. Anns greatest joy and proudest role in life was being a mother.
www.thechickmission.org or https://funraise.org/give/The-Chick-Mission/5105dbe3-9ac9-49b9-b15d-c79f88ad7075/ To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Frances, please visit our Tree Store.