Paul Edward Blanchard

The family of Paul Edward Blanchard, 94, of Sebring, Florida, is deeply saddened to announce his passing on October 5, 2026, peacefully in his sleep and surrounded by loved ones. Paul was born on October 9, 1932, in South Brewer, Maine to Thomas and Bertha (Townsend) Blanchard. He graduated from John Bapst High School in 1952 and proudly served two years in the United States Navy. He went on to enjoy a long and successful career with Gulf Life Insurance Company/American General. Paul lived a full and happy life, filled with laughter, generosity, the outdoors, travel, and, above all, a deep love for his family. He enjoyed playing Jokers and Marbles and had a lifelong appreciation for sports. Whether playing or watching, he especially enjoyed football, basketball, tennis, golf, and pickleball. He was known for his good humor and the phrases that became part of who he was. “Keep on keeping on” was his familiar encouragement to persevere. And when playing cards, Paul had his own bit of magic: he would draw a “magic circle and place it with a dot” on a card before turning it over, hoping it would bring him the card he wanted. These little traditions, along with his laughter and generous spirit, will be fondly remembered by all who knew and loved him. He will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 20 years, Genevieve; his daughters, Paula (Robert) Esposito and Karen (Scott) Symonette; his daughter-in-law, Leilani Blanchard Brochard ; seven grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, and dear friends. Paul was preceded in death by his first wife of 50 years, Elizabeth (Obey) Blanchard; his son, Scott Edward Blanchard; his parents; and his brothers and sister. A visitation will take place in Sebring on October 12, 2026, from 3:00-5:00 pm at Stephenson-Nelson Funeral Home, 4001 Sebring Parkway, Sebring, FL 33870. A Catholic Funeral Mass will be held at St. Rita’s Catholic Church, 13645 Paddock Dr. Wellington, FL 33414 on October 14, 2026 at 11:00 am with burial to follow at Our Lady Queen of Peace Cemetery in Royal Palm Beach, FL. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to a charity of your choice or to Paul’s favorite charity, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Arrangements entrusted to:

Stephenson-Nelson Funeral Home

4001 Sebring Parkway

Sebring, FL 33870

www.stephensonnelsonfh.com