- Obituary
Lornelle went to be with Jesus on Monday, January 17, 2022 following a lengthy illness. Born May 20, 1943 in Washington, D.C to the late Sidney and Marguerite Bayne.
Lornelle grew up in the DC area with her older brother and two younger sisters. After graduating from Wilson HS, Lornelle met Elmer at their place of employment and they were married in 1963. They raised their two children in Rockville and life was full of scouting duties, municipal pool visits, and of course the never-ending home chores. She was an exceptional homemaker, gardener, and general contractor extraordinair for the fixer-upper they bought in 1974. Together Elmer and Lornelle poured their love and talents into 333 Seth Place and transformed the old house into a treasured home.
Lornelle loved antiques, collectibles, knitting and quilting, winning many ribbons at the Montgomery Co. Fair. She gave back to her community by donating her hand-made blankets to Project Linus. She was a self-taught pianist and enjoyed playing for her church. She also served her church as treasurer and loved cooking for the potluck luncheons and singing in the choir.
Her zest for life at home and church also found its way into the Finance Office at Montgomery College where she had a long career assisting and supporting both colleagues and students. All who knew her, loved her as was evident at her retirement celebration from the college in 2011. Having had summers off during her tenure, she and Elmer were able to travel to exciting destinations near and far, by plane, train, cruise and car. Together they saw the best of all 50 United States AND the best of many other countries too. The collection of Creation photos of the beauty and grandeur they witnessed together is endless!
Gatherings with family including 7 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren made her the happiest. Whether it was a school milestone or sporting activity, she would always show up with her camera ready to capture life's sweet moments. She always displayed the most gentle spirit in her many roles as wife, mother, sister, grandma, great grandma and Daughter of the King. As her end drew near, Elmer's joy in caring for her was complete because of the gentleness of her spirit. The truth is, we are all richer from the gift of walking life's highs and lows with her. Missing her here on earth is indeed comforted by our knowledge that Lornelle has finally gained Heaven.
Beloved wife of 58 years to Elmer Blankenship; devoted mother of Lauren Haas (husband, Tim) and Wade Blankenship; cherished grandmother of Andrew, Tony, Travis, Ginger, Allie, Matthew, and Kevin; great grandmother of Brianna, Bailey, Easton, Cameron, Luke, Mila, River, and Charlie; loving sister of Tony, Sydney, Dee Dee, and the late Betty.
Family will receive friends at PUMPHREY'S COLONIAL FUNERAL HOME, 300 W. Montgomery Ave, Rockville, MD on Tuesday, January 25 from 4 to 6 pm, where service will be held on Wednesday, January 26, 2022 at 10 am. Interment to follow at Parklawn Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to MontgomeryHospice.org, or DementiaSociety.org
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1943 - 2022 (78 years)
