Kelli Blanton

Kelli Blanton, 61, passed away on November 17, 2024, in Joplin, MO. She was born on February 8, 1963 to the late Richard and Elda (Whittle) Christensen.

Kelli married her beloved husband, Carl Blanton, in Las Vegas, Nevada, on March 26, 2002. Their life together was filled with joy, laughter, and an unbreakable bond that stood as a testament to their love. Kelli embraced her role as a stepmother with grace and love, forming deep and lasting relationships with her stepchildren, Craig and Scott Blanton. The light of her life was her grandson, Caden Blanton, whom she adored with every fiber of her being. She was family oriented, and her parents and grandparents were an important part of her life.

A lifelong learner and educator, Kelli achieved a Master's degree in nursing, which paved the way for a career marked by excellence and service. For the past decade, she served as a Nurse Educator at Freeman Hospital and Missouri Southern State University (MSSU), where she poured her knowledge and experience into the hearts and minds of her students. Kelli's commitment to nursing extended to her roles at McCune Brooks Hospital in Carthage, MO, St. John's ER in Springfield, MO, and Emory Hospital in Atlanta, GA.

Kelli's colleagues in nursing were not just coworkers but cherished friends. Her ability to connect with others, her empathy, and her unwavering support made her a beloved figure in the nursing community. Her influence and guidance have left an indelible mark on the profession she so dearly loved.

Beyond her professional achievements, Kelli was a woman of many interests. She had a passion for travel. The theatre and music were sources of great joy for Kelli, and she found a creative outlet in acting, particularly in Shakespeare plays.

Additional survivors include her siblings, Valerie Layton and Brian Christensen; niece, Hannah Layton; nephews, Josh Christensen and Nate Christensen.

A Funeral Service will be held on Friday, November 22, 2024 at 4:00 p.m. at Parker Mortuary in Joplin, MO.

Arrangements are under the direct care of Parker Mortuary.