Lois Blake Tankersley, 95, entered the Church Triumphant on Thursday, March, 9, 2023. Born in Gloucester, Virginia, she was the oldest of six children of Enos Blake and Naomi Hudson Blake. Raised on the family farm, she developed a strong work ethic, resiliency, and "can do" approach to all aspects of life.

Upon graduating from William and Mary college, Lois began working as a high school English teacher, driven by her love of reading and a passion for literacy. She met her future husband, Roland Tankersley, while singing in the church choir. They were married for 45 years until Roland's death in 1996.

Lois was a lifelong learner and strongly believed in the value of education. In addition to her undergraduate degree from William and Mary, she later earned a degree in library science as well as her Risk Management Certification - all while working full time and raising four children. While her initial career was in education, she ultimately moved into hospital administration. Starting as a transcriptionist at the Medical College of Virginia, she ultimately became the Director of Risk Management at Nemours Children's Hospital in Jacksonville, Florida - breaking several glass ceilings along the way!

A devoted Christian, Lois lived out her faith in many ways such as Bible study, prayer groups, mission-based community service, and mentoring young mothers. Long-term memberships at Arlington United Methodist Church (Jacksonville, FL) and Lakewood United Methodist Church (Tomball, TX) led to many lifetime friendships.

Lois's greatest joy was her family. She was a strong role model for her children and made significant sacrifices to give them (and later her grandchildren) the best educational, cultural, and growth opportunities she could. Friends and family describe her as generous, loving, and kind, with a beautiful smile... a true Southern lady.

Lois is survived by her children Wayne Tankersley (Tina), Eloise Hill (Carl), Beth Register (Jimmy), and Claude Tankersley (Darius) as well as grandchildren Catherine Johns (Garret) Corey Hill, Kyle Hill, Scout Register, Carson Register, and Ron Rauber (Vicky), great granddaughter Charlotte Johns, and brothers Jimmie (Beth) and Bernard (Peggy) Blake. She was predeceased by brothers Enos and Russell Blake, and sister Patricia Eastwood.

A memorial service will be held at 3pm on Saturday, April 15th, at Petsworth Baptist Church in Gloucester, VA. The family welcomes donations to the World Literacy Foundation in lieu of flowers. Andrews Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.