Dorothy ‘Melba’ Blankenship

Published 3:10 pm Thursday, January 16, 2025

Dorothy “Melba” Blankenship, born Jan. 6, 1937, in Mechanicsburg, Mississippi, passed away peacefully Monday, Jan. 13, 2025, at Ridgeland Place in Ridgeland, Mississippi.

A highly respected educator, Melba taught as an English teacher at Biloxi High School and Fernwood Junior High School. Alongside her role as an English teacher, she also imparted her knowledge of French, Spanish, and German. She obtained both her undergraduate and master’s degrees in English from the Mississippi University for Women, The “W,”  in Columbus, Mississippi. Her academic excellence was recognized when she became a Fulbright Scholar, allowing her the unique opportunity to study in France as an exchange student. Her dedication extended beyond her professional life; she was also an active member of Morrison Heights Baptist Church, where she served on the Encouragement Committee and taught Sunday school.

Melba is survived by her loving daughters, Karen Googe (Robbie) of Madison and Amy Blankenship of Byram. She cherished her family deeply, including her brother, Billy Foster (Peggy) of Vicksburg; her brother-in-law, Jim Corulla; her granddaughter, Jessica Smith (Matt) of Madison; and her great-grandchild, Grayson Smith.

A visitation for Melba will be held Saturday, Jan. 18, 2025, from 12:30 to 2 p.m. at Chancellor Funeral Home in Byram. The Funeral Service will begin at 2 p.m., with a graveside service immediately following at Raymond Cemetery in Raymond, Mississippi.