Emily Jefferis Blanca

Our dear mother, Emily Jefferis Blanca, passed away on March 7, 2026, at the age of 98 after a long and well- lived life. Emily was a native Floridan, born November 30, 1927, in Orlando, Florida.

She attended local schools throughout her twelve years of education and graduated from Orlando High School. It was in high school where she met Angel Blanca from Cuba, wo was also attending Orlando High. They married shortly after graduation and shared 57 years of marriage.

Emily enjoyed gardening and was an avid reader of mystery novels. She was a dedicated and loving homemaker throughout her life. Emily loved cooking both Southern-style dishes and special Latin recipes for her family and friends.

Emily's greatest love was her family. Her special little friends were the many dogs she had over the years. She greatly enjoyed her daily walks with each dog and the companionship they provided.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Angel Blanca; her daughter, Shirley Ross; and her granddaughter, Asheley McCleary.

Emily is survived by her daughter, Angela B. Lane; her son, Walter Blanca (Long Blanca); her sisters, Barbara Bradshaw and Mary Odom; her granddaughter, Kim Dreslin (Andrew Dreslin); her granddaughters, Lane Dreslin, Linnea Dreslin, and Lolly Dreslin; and her grandson, Orion McCleary.

Family and friends will gather on Friday, March 13, 2026, for a graveside service at Greenwood Cemetery in Orlando, FL.