Virginia Pridgen Blankinchip

Mary Virginia Pridgen Blankinchip, age 96, passed from this life into eternal peace on November 11, 2024. Born May 22, 1928, she was a beloved daughter of Edna Mae Hicks and Benjamin Talmadge Pridgen, a devoted wife, nurturing mother, cherished grandmother, and steadfast friend who shaped the lives of all who knew her.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 62 years, Hollis Cyrus Blankinchip; her sons Charles Hollis Blankinchip, Billy Joe Blankinchip, and Kenneth Larry Blankinchip; grandson Brian Marc Blankinchip; daughter-in-law Lee Ann (Lynch) Blankinchip; and her siblings Leonard, Louise, Harold, Herman, Edward, Hazel, and Clinton.

Virginia is survived by her sons Bennie Preston Blankinchip and Glenn Paul Blankinchip; daughter Cheryl Lynn (Rodriguez) Blankinchip; sister-in-law Maylene (Welford) Pridgen; daughters-in-law Vicki Acy Blankinchip and Polly Ann Fleming Blankinchip; Seventeen grandchildren, numerous great-grandchildren, and four great-great-grandchildren.

Virginia grew up during the Great Depression on a family farm, where they grew cotton, corn, beans, and peas — everything they needed to sustain themselves through those years. Early lessons in resourcefulness and care would end up defining her life. She could always make a full meal when others saw an empty kitchen, and though she rarely used recipes, her cooking brought family together around her table time and time again. 

After World War II, Virginia owned and operated what is now The Junction gas station near Leakesville, MS, while caring for her first-born Charles. She also worked as a seamstress and later shared her cooking expertise through grocery store demonstrations. She was an active member at Memorial Baptist Church, Garden Club, Women's Club, and Citronelle Historical Preservation Society. She also enjoyed needlepoint and crochet and made beautiful gifts for her family. Her love for travel led her across all fifty states, through Europe, Israel, Canada, and the Caribbean. 

Yet, no matter how far she traveled or the roles she embraced, Virginia was, above all, a steady source of comfort and belonging to everyone who knew her. Her door always opened with a hug, her cake plate was never empty, and though many tried, no one could convince her to sit still while they cooked — caring for others was simply who she was. In her presence, the world slowed down just enough to remember what matters most.

Virginia leaves us with the understanding true compassion doesn’t require complexity, but rather one simple, essential truth: show up—with a warm meal, a listening ear, or a comforting presence when words aren't enough. Her legacy is one of unwavering love, quiet strength, and the profound peace through all of life’s moments.

The family extends special thanks to Meals on Wheels, Francis Heifner, Ann Petcher, Rachel Helton, the team from St. Joseph Hospice, especially Francine Henderson, and all of the family members who helped care for Virginia during this last year.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Memorial Baptist Church in Citronelle, with visitation on Sunday, November 17, 2024, from 5-7 p.m., and a service on Monday, November 18, 2024, at 10 a.m.