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Obituary for Rodney J Blanchard
Rodney J. Blanchard, age 69, of Golconda, Illinois passed away on May 12, 2017 at Lourdes Hospital in Paducah, KY.
He was born July 12, 1947 to John and Vivian (Bennett) Blanchard in Metropolis, IL. He served in the U.S. ARMY. Rodney married Patricia King on June 22, 1974. He worked not only as a corrections educator at both the Dixon Springs Juvenile Center and IYC in Harrisburg, eventually retiring, but also operated the family farm. He instilled a strong work ethic in his children, leading by example. Rodney loved to hunt and fish, go camping at the Hut, and spend time tending his garden. Many reaped the rewards from his chickens, as he was always sharing a carton of eggs and a story, usually starting with the words "Ok, now...". Rodney's greatest joy was spending time with his grandchildren. His oldest grandchild, Carter, shared many adventures with Copper, the name he gave his grandpa. Rodney's knowledge, sense of humor, generosity, and willingness to help others endeared him to all that knew him.
Rodney is survived by his wife of 42years, Pat Blanchard of Golconda; daughter, Jessica (Chris) Bevis of Golconda; son, Brad (Kelsey) Blanchard of Golconda; grandchildren, Carter Bevis, Emery Bevis, Kinley Smith all of Golconda; sisters, Joan Davis of Golconda, Karen (John) Okerson of Vienna; brother, Ronald Blanchard of Golconda.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Funeral service will be 1:00 pm on Monday, May 15, 2017 at Aly Funeral Home in Eddyville, IL. The service will be conducted by Bro. Toby Williams and Bro. Kevin Richerson. Interment will follow at Sulphur Springs Cemetery. Military Honors will be conducted at the graveside by VFW Post 9227, American Legion Post 719, and ARMY National Guard Military Honors Team. Visitation will be from 5-9 pm on Sunday, May 14, 2017 at Aly Funeral Home in Eddyville, IL. Memorials may be made to: Golconda Public Library PO Box 523 Golconda, IL 62938 or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital 501 St Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105
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