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Kelly Blankenship, former Windsor councilwoman, passed away Saturday, Nov. 11, at the age of 63.

Her obituary on the Parr Funeral Home & Crematory website states, “On Nov. 11, 2023 Kelly Gwen Blankenship was suddenly called to her eternal home, where she is rejoining with our Lord and Savior.”

The town of Windsor released a statement Tuesday afternoon, Nov. 14, reacting to her death.

“We are saddened to hear of the passing of Kelly Blankenship,” town officials stated. “Kelly was dedicated to the town of Windsor and served the town as a member of the Town Council.”

She served on the council from 2019-22.

“She was faithful and enthusiastic about her duties on the Town Council and was particularly attentive to ensuring that the town’s financials were accurate,” officials said. “Her commitment of time and energy made the town of Windsor a better place.”

Blankenship was set to be honored by the town, along with three other former Windsor elected officials, at a recognition dinner on Wednesday, Nov. 15. The dinner is an event that the town holds from time to time to express gratitude for those, like Blankenship, who have served it with distinction.

“The town has lost an outstanding public servant and friend, and our thoughts and prayers go out to her family,” town officials said.

Blankenship’s obituary notes that she was born on Nov. 9, 1960, in Norfolk to Willis and Anna Blankenship, by whom she is survived. She is also survived by two brothers, two sisters and many nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by an aunt, uncle and a niece.

She grew up in Virginia Beach and worked for more than 35 years in the data processing industry with Fiserv, ending her career at SwitchThink Solutions as an integration analyst, the obituary states. 

The obit added that she was a longtime member of Westminster Reformed Presbyterian Church in Suffolk.

“Those who knew Kelly will remember her for her kindness, wit and love of God, family, friends and work,” the obituary states. “She was always ready to lend a helping hand and care for others. She was meticulous and thoughtful in all things. Her absence will be missed by the many people’s lives she touched and her beloved fur babies.”

The obituary concluded by noting that a funeral service will be held Sunday, Nov. 19, at 4 p.m. at Westminster Reformed Presbyterian Church, with the Rev. Ruffin Alphin officiating. Friends will be able to join the family for a time of visitation one hour prior to the service, from 3-4 p.m., at the church. Burial will take place Monday, Nov. 20, at 1 p.m. at Woodlawn Memorial Gardens in Norfolk.