Lois Carolyn Sullenberger

Lois Sullenberger, 78, of Tallahassee, Florida, passed away on July 3, 2024. Born on August 9, 1945, in Arkansas, Lois was one of ten children of the late Eugene and Jeanette Blankenship. She moved to the Tallahassee area at a young age and attended Leon High School. After working in the medical field for many years, she became a dedicated homemaker. Lois was married to Dr. John W. Sullenberger, who passed away on April 12, 2009. Together, they built a loving family and shared many wonderful memories. Lois was a deeply loving and devoted mother. She cherished her children, Dean Rakestraw (Debbie) of Tallahassee, FL, Laurie Ann Falk (Mike) of Crawfordville, FL, step-daughters Lance Canter (Bob) of Monticello, FL, and Kathy Bensabat (Mark) of Waveland, MS, and daughter-in- law Suzanne Sullenberger of Tallahassee, FL. She adored her grandchildren—Carson and Kaelyn Falk, Madison and Sarah Rakestraw, Mitchell Canter and Beth Sasson, George and John Bensabat, Catherine and Thomas Sullenberger—and treasured her 11 great- grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister Sandra Morgan and brother Gary Blankenship (Levada). Lois had a profound love for horses, a passion she joyfully passed down to her daughter and granddaughter, Kaelyn. She spent countless hours at Little Pond Farm, watching them ride and caring for the horses. Her dedication was recognized in 2014 when she was awarded the Southern Hunter Jumper Association’s Parent of the Year for her tireless help and support. Lois also loved spending time with her family on the Ochlockonee River, traveling with them to fishing tournaments, and enjoying the outdoors. She was preceded in death by her sisters, Jesse Faye Blankenship, Cheryl Ann Blankenship, Clara Hough, and Von Tumbleson; brothers, Dennis Blankenship, Don Blankenship, and Roger Blankenship; and her step-son, John W. Sullenberger, Jr. Special thanks to the staff at St. Augustine Plantation for their love, kindness, and dedication. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Wakulla Animal Services (1 Oak Street, Crawfordville, FL 32327 850-926-0902) or the American Cancer Society. A celebration will be held at 1:00 PM at Abbey Funeral Home on Tuesday, July 9, 2024. The family will receive guests from 12:00-1:00 prior to the service. Lois's legacy of love, kindness, and devotion to her family will be cherished forever by all who knew her.

Lois Carolyn Sullenberger

August 9, 1945 - July 3, 2024