Kathryn “Sue” Blankinship (Holder) passed away peacefully surrounded by loving family at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Eureka at the age of 70 on Tuesday, February 6, 2024, after a long struggle with cancer.  

She was born on August 25, 1953 in Arcata and was a 1971 graduate of Arcata High School.  Sue was a devout Christian who loved Jesus with all her heart.  She also enjoyed her Starbucks frappuccino drinks, being involved with her church community, spending time with family, shopping and pedicures, trailer camping, and never met a stranger anywhere she went.

She is survived by her husband of 42 years, Wayne Blankinship; her daughter, Melissa “Missy” Mathews, (and Kurt); her son, Marcus “Bo” Blankinship, (and Lauren “Lola”), her son James “Yamie” Flanagan; grandsons, Luke Mathews, Karsen Mathews, and Roman Blankinship; brothers, Gary Holder (and Joeinne), Jerome Holder (and Daniel), and John Holder (and Danyell); and countless friends.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Vestal and Mardell Holder, and sister Peggy “Poopsie” Godfrey.

Sue’s family is respecting her wishes to not have a memorial service; however, anyone wanting to honor her life is encouraged to make a donation to their local Hospice in her name.

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The obituary above was submitted on behalf of Sue Blankinship’s loved ones. The Lost Coast Outpost runs obituaries of Humboldt County residents at no charge. See guidelines here.