It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Barbra Ann Blanke Young, affectionately known by so many as Sissy Blanke Young, who received her angel wings in the early hours of September 27, 2026, at her home in Florence, Alabama.

Sissy passed peacefully, surrounded by love, with her beloved son Todd by her side, holding her hand. After a sudden and brief battle with cancer, Sissy faced each moment with strength, grace, bravery, and courage until the very end.

Sissy was a woman with a heart of gold who had a remarkable ability to make a friend wherever she went. She was deeply loved by her family and by the many people whose lives she touched throughout the years.

Above all else, Sissy was devoted to her family. She took immense pride in being a mother to her two sons and was always there to support them. She attended their football games, school events, and the many important moments of their lives. Her love and dedication to her family were at the center of everything she did.

Sissy was also an incredible grandmother and great-grandmother. She cherished the time she spent with her family and took great pride in watching the generations she loved grow. Her love will continue to live on through her son, granddaughter, great-granddaughter, and all those who were fortunate enough to know her.

Sissy was predominantly a homemaker, dedicating much of her life to caring for and supporting her family. She also worked part-time with Mary Kay. She was known for her warmth, kindness, generosity, and the genuine friendships she formed wherever life took her.

Growing up, Sissy enjoyed many activities and adventures. She loved horseback riding, ballet, and water skiing, and she was a member of her high school swim team. She was a graduate of Coffee High School.

Sissy was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Helen Blanke; her brothers, Bob Blanke and Buddy Blanke; her husband, Charles Young; and her firstborn son, Randy Lee White Jr.

She leaves behind her beloved son, Todd White; granddaughter, Kaycee Botte; and great-granddaughter, Rilee Grace Botte, who will carry her memory and love forward for generations to come.

Sissy’s final days were made gentler by the extraordinary love and devotion of her son Todd, who cared for her throughout her illness and was by her side until the very end. Special recognition and heartfelt gratitude are also extended to her dearest friends, Pat Walton and Tammy Highfield, whose fierce loyalty, friendship, and loving care meant so much to Sissy and her family. They stood alongside Todd and cared for Sissy with compassion and devotion during her final days.

Though Sissy’s passing leaves an immeasurable void in the hearts of those who loved her, her memory will remain in the countless lives she touched. She will be remembered as a loving mother, devoted grandmother and great-grandmother, loyal friend, and beautiful soul who made people feel loved and welcomed.

Visitation will be held at St. Joseph Catholic Church on Thursday, October 1, 2026, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m., with funeral service and Mass to follow at 11:00 a.m.