Linda Amilda Blankinsop, age 80, of North Fairfield died on Wednesday, September 4, 2024 at Fisher-Titus Medical Center in Norwalk. Born March 31, 1944 in Cleveland to the late Homer and Elsie (Manke) Dreger, she grew up in the Cleveland area, graduating from Cleveland Heights High School. She earned her beautician's license after high school and worked as a hair dresser for over 50 years.

While hairdressing was her career, it was also her passion and she loved working for Town and Country Beauty Shop, then Oliver's Hair, and later Ed's Hair Shop. A creative spirit, Linda enjoyed expressing her creativity not only through her career as a hairdresser, but also through crocheting and cross stitching many beautiful projects over the years. Many of her creations including Afghans and blankets were given as gifts to family and friends. Linda often included the color purple as it was her absolute favorite. She was also an avid gardener, creating elaborate garden beds.

While Linda took great pride in all of her artistic endeavors, she was happiest when she was surrounded by her family. She married her beloved husband, John, on August 30, 1979 and the couple did most everything together. Linda was a very strong woman, physically and mentally, and her strength proved useful as they owned and operated a mom-and-pop mechanic shop for several years. Family will tell you that Linda could re-build an engine with the best of them.

In addition to her loving husband, Linda is survived by the three generations of children that they raised together; son, Tom Blankinsop; grandchildren, Racquel, Leanna, Ashley, and Thomas; great-grandchildren, Michael, Lexy, Cheyanne, Skielur, Gunner, and Ella; and a niece, Holly Peterson.

Linda was preceded in death by her parents, Homer and Elsie Dreger; brothers, Roger and Dough Dreger; sister, Judy Wood; nephew Jeremy Dreger; and great-niece Kayla Peterson.

Family and friends are invited to visitation on Monday, September 9, 2024 from 4:00p.m. until 6:00p.m. at Eastman Funeral Home, 49 W. Main St., Greenwich, OH 44837. A funeral service will immediately follow visitation at 6:00 p.m.. Private burial will take place at North Fairfield Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

On-line condolences may be left for the family at www.eastmanfuneralhome.com.