Paula Jane Rogers Blank, a resident of Dripping Springs for the last 20 years, passed away on Feb. 5. She and her husband Wes, moved to the Hill Country from Pasadena, TX in 1995 to be near their two daughters and four grandchildren.
Paula was born in Tyler, TX on July 26, 1937. She graduated from Pasadena High School in 1955. Paula was active in the Order of the Rainbow for Girls and served in its highest office, as Grand Worthy Advisor of Texas in 1957. She continued to be active in Rainbow as an adult and as a member of the Order of the Eastern Star. Paula received her BA at the University of Texas in 1959. She taught briefly in the Pasadena ISD before devoting all her time to her family.
Her 55-year marriage to Wesley Blank was an example of true commitment. They met in the sixth grade at Kruse Elementary in Pasadena, became high school sweethearts and were eventually married in 1959. Paula’s greatest attribute was her ability to keep a positive attitude during her nearly 21-year battle with cancer. She was an inspiration to all who knew her and will be remembered for her steadfast faith, her grace in all situations, and her courage even after losing Wes unexpectedly last April.
In addition to Wes, Paula was preceded in death by her parents, Paul and Jeanette Rogers. She is survived by daughters Jennifer Ragsdale and husband Trey, Amber Crossland and husband Lamar, and by her four grandchildren, Kerbye and Trevor Ragsdale and Morgan and Cody Crossland. She is also survived by brothers Mike Rogers and wife Priscilla of Brownwood and Pat Rogers and wife Patricia of Huffman, and their families.
Her membership at Dripping Springs United Methodist Church was a source of great joy for Paula. Her church family was a wonderful support group throughout her battle with cancer and especially following Wes’ death.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Capital Campaign Building Fund at her church (www.dsumc.org) or to the American Cancer Society. A celebration of Paula’s life will be held at 2 p.m. March 1 at Dripping Springs United Methodist Church.
