Cheryl Ann Blankenship Kopmann

URBANA - Cheryl Ann Blankenship Kopmann, 78, of Palmetto, Fla., suddenly went to be with the Lord on May 14, 2025, at 3:02 a.m. when she heard the words, "Well done good and faithful servant."

She was born in Urbana, to Robert and Evelyn Blankenship and lived the majority of her life in Illinois, spending the last three years in Palmetto, Fla.

She is survived by her three daughters, Kari (Greg) Austiff of Cullowwhee, N.C., Kelli Manning of South Pasadena, Fla., and Kristi (Kraig) Lemley of Brighton; four grandchildren; three great-grandchildren, with two more great-granddaughters on the way; and two sisters, Mary Kae Douglas and her twin, Carol Whittaker.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Paul William and Evelyn Meyers, and Robert Blankenship; grandparents; and great-granddaughter, Oaklynn Kay Austiff.

Cheryl had an extensive career working for the University of Illinois, American Savings Bank, Warner Realty, her own business as Red Carpet Kopmann Realty, the State of Illinois, Regal Cruise Line, Easter Seals, Carle Foundation Hospital and for her daughter at CalmWaters Counseling.

She played an integral role in the Republican Party of Manatee County, Fla., through fundraising and campaigning.

To know Cheryl was to love her. Her love for people made everyone feel seen and welcomed. She loved the Lord and would share her childlike faith with everyone. She attended church regularly and volunteered two days a week in the church pantry and she loved her Bible study group. Her worldwide travel reflected her zest for life. She loved to try new food, dance, have a glass of wine and watch sports on television, especially the Illini. Her family was the most important to her and spending time with them was always her number one activity. She will be dearly missed. Visitation will be held at Renner-Wikoff Chapel in Urbana on Sunday, June 29, from 2 to 4 p.m. Private family burial will take place on Monday, June 30, at 9 a.m. in Woodlawn Cemetery.