Blanche was a life-long resident of the Richland area. She attended rural schools near Richland and worked as early as age twelve to help the family makes ends meet. She cleaned houses, provided babysitting services for many families and worked for the Warren family for several years.
Blanche was united in marriage to William E. Steward. William and Blanche married on stage during a traveling carnival passing through Lebanon, Missouri. They received $50.00 for this act of bravery, quite a sum of money back then, which was quickly put to good use towards several months of rent. Born to this union were five children: Billy, Norma, Jack, Patsy and Ronda.
Blanche raised her family during a very difficult era. Economic times were difficult during the depression years. Throughout it all, Blanche made a loving home for her family and cherished the time spent with each and every one of them.
Mrs. Steward departed this life at 1:52 A.M. Sunday November 15, 2009 at the Richland Care Center, Richland, Missouri. Blanche had attained the age of 97 years.
Mrs. Steward is survived by three children: Jack Stewart of Richland, Patsy Ruth Maddox of Kingdom City and Ronda Lou Bacon of Springfield; three sisters: Eula Wilson and Louise Wilson both of Eureka, California and Mary Lee Finnegan of Enid, Oklahoma; 16 grandchildren; several great and great-great grandchildren; nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends.
She is preceded in death by her parents; husband, William (1978); daughter, Norma Brizendine (1993); son, Billy (1938) and brother, Snowden Salsman.
A graveside service was held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, November 17, 2009, at Hazelgreen Cemetery of Hazelgreen with Rev. Christopher Hendrix, Sr. officiating. Serving as escorts were Elmo Green, Matt Farris, Robert Noll, Michael Eggen, Jarred Maddox and William Maddox. Services were under the direction of Memorial Chapels and Crematory of Richland.
Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Blanche Steward.
January 21st, 1912 - November 15th, 2009
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