Christie Kay Blanton

Christie Kay Blanton, a loving mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully at her home in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma on Tuesday, April 4, 2023 at the age of 70. She was born on May 15, 1952, in Waukegan, Illinois to Ralph and Maxine (Tennyson) Girdley. Christie's life was marked by her dedication to her family, her faith, and her passion for education.

Christie was a proud graduate of Waukegan High School in 1970 and went on to earn her Master's degree in Secondary Education from Roosevelt University in Chicago, Illinois. Her love for teaching led her to a fulfilling career as a teacher at the University of Wisconsin, where she inspired countless students with her wisdom, compassion, and unwavering support.

Family was the cornerstone of Christie's life, and she cherished the time spent with her loved ones. She is survived by her daughter, Heather (Blanton) Johnson and husband Doug of Bolingbrook, Illinois; her son, Matt Blanton and wife Heather of Coweta, Oklahoma; and her three beloved grandchildren, Brandon Johnson, Matthew Blanton, and Michael Blanton. Christie's love for her family extended to her canine companions, Annie and Oliver, who brought her much joy and comfort throughout the years. Christie was preceded in death by her parents, Ralph and Maxine Girdley.

Christie's faith was a guiding light in her life, providing her with strength, hope, and a sense of purpose. Her faith-filled spirit was evident in her interactions with others, as she consistently demonstrated love, kindness, and understanding to those around her.

In addition to her love for her family, faith, and career, Christie had a wide array of interests that brought joy and fulfillment to her life. She was an avid animal lover and was also a talented pianist. A lifelong fan of the Chicago Cubs, Christie could often be found cheering on her favorite team. Christie enjoyed the beauty and serenity of nature. Her love for cooking brought people together, as she delighted in preparing meals with those she cared for.

Above all, Christie's life was defined by her unwavering love and devotion to her family. She was a constant source of support, encouragement, and guidance for her children and grandchildren, and her legacy will live on through the values and lessons she instilled in them. Christie's memory will be forever cherished by her family, friends, and all those whose lives she touched with her loving, faith-filled spirit.

A memorial service celebrating Christie's life will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, April 14, 2023, at the First United Methodist Church in Coweta, Oklahoma. Friends and family are invited to gather and share their memories of this remarkable woman, whose love and faith touched the lives of all who knew her.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Salvation Army of the Waukegan Public Library.

Family and friends may share memories online at www.brownfamilycares.com. The family of Christie Kay Blanton entrusted her care, cremation, and service to Brown Funeral Home & Cremations, 210 S. Broadway, Coweta, Oklahoma 74429, 918-486-5515.