Karen Sue (Blankenship) Bateman

Karen Sue (Blankenship) Bateman age 58, resident of Phelps, Kentucky, passed away peacefully at her home on January 17th, 2026. 

Karen was born on October 15th, 1967, to her biological parents, the late Clayton & Patricia (Thacker) Blankenship. 

In addition to her parents, she was also preceded by her adopted parents, Tommy & Mary Blankenship, and two people who she considered like parents that had a hand in raising her, Catman & Shirley Blankenship, her grandson, Domanic Sanders, three sisters, Neva May, Susie Blankenship, and Vivian Blankenship, and one brother, Daryel Blankenship.

Karen enjoyed working throughout her life and was always a dedicated employee.  She loved taking care of her dogs, especially Nelly.  Karen had a passion for singing and she loved her social media.  Before her health declined, she was always delighted to take care of her grandson, Raiden.    

Those surviving Karen include her daughters, Nicki Sanders, and Charlotte (Kevin) Dotson both of Phelps, KY; brothers, Mitchell Thacker of Owensville, KY, Carl Blankenship, and Marvin Blankenship both of Phelps, KY; three sisters, Anita Tilden Smith of Belfry, KY, Sara Blankenship, and Crystal Thacker both of Owensville, KY.

Karen was the proud grandmother of Kolten Dotson, and Raiden Sanders.  She had a special niece, Paige “Spunk” Smith and two special neighbors that always checked on her and she loved them dearly, Jordan & Gabe Blankenship of Phelps, KY.  Karen leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at Hornet’s Restaurant for always being so good to Karen. 

There are no services scheduled at this time. 

The Jones & West Funeral Home of Phelps, Kentucky is honored to serve the Bateman Family.  Our guestbook may be viewed online at www.joneswestfh.com

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