Birth date: Feb 12, 1950 Death date: Nov 21, 2014
Bill J. Blanchard passed away on Friday, November 21, 2014 near Mandeville, LA. He was born on Sunday, February 12, 1950 in Lafayette, LA to Ruby Walton and Joseph Blanchard. Bill and his mother moved to Orange, TX shortly after h Read Obituary
Dear Mary Helen and the Blanchard family,
I ran across this piece more than 20 years ago and it struck me as the most accurate definition of success I had ever read. I clipped it out and have saved it ever since. I thought to myself that if I could in any way emulate this to even the smallest degree, then my life on earth would not have been wasted. It goes as follows:
“He has achieved success who has lived well, laughed often, and loved much;
Who has enjoyed the trust of pure women, the respect of intelligent men and the love of little children;
Who has filled his niche and accomplished his task;
Who has never lacked appreciation of Earth's beauty or failed to express it;
Who has left the world better than he found it,
Whether an improved poppy, a perfect poem, or a rescued soul;
Who has always looked for the best in others and given them the best he had;
Whose life was an inspiration;
Whose memory a benediction.”
- Bessie Anderson Stanley
I had the distinct pleasure of working alongside Bill for two years and getting to know both him and you Mary Helen, personally, is like meeting a bright spot that will always shine. Please know that reflecting back on this beautiful poem, I cannot help but think that it was specifically written for beautiful soul's like Bill's. He was a success in every way imaginable and I am happy to know that he left a footprint in my life. With deepest heartfelt condolences and prayers, Warmly, Michelle Aycock
"Mr. Bill" was such a great teacher and he gave back to the community many blessings with his knowledge of recovery. He will be greatly missed by many. My fondest memory of him was when I was in treatment at SOAR and he helped me find someone to keep my pet while I was there. I was quite disturbed during this time and he helped me become grounded and calmed me down. I will always remember his kindness and will, in his memory, give back to someone today. Will say a prayer for his family and may he rest in peace.
I grew up on the same street with Billy Joe who also was my classmate. He was so kind and fell in love and married joy. He and Joy had two sons. After Joy passed away he married Mary Helen and added a daughter. I was honored to walk with him for graduation since we were childhood friends. Rest in Peace from Juanita Pachuca Bourgeois
I grew up with Bill on North 8th Street in Orange. Had not seen him for 40 years, until his mom's funeral. He told me I was like a brother to him, and that's the truth. As kids, we'd play, we'd fight, we'd pout, we'd forget about what the fight was about, then we'd play some more. Bill over came some great odds that life threw at him, and built a wonder life and legacy of love, from all of the lives he touched. Rest in peace, Billy Joe, my old friend, and brother.
I am so very sorry for your loss - I loved working with Bill and considered him a dear friend. with greatest sympathy - Leslie Deville McDaniel.
Bill was one of the warmest, kindest people I've ever known. So sad to hear of his passing, but know his memory will continue to inspire love in all who knew him. Blessed to have had the opportunity to work with him. Much love and condolences to his family and friends.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family, Mary Helen!
Mary Helen, I was saddened to hear that Bill passed away. My thoughts are with you & your family. Bill wore a lot of hats - husband, father, grandfather, counselor, neighbor, sponsor, friend. I saw him as a strong man who loved his family. He was loved and admired by the wide circle of people he touched during his life. Together, you created a strong family that has touched many more. I'm so glad that mine was one of them.
So sorry to hear about Mr. Blanchard. Please know that your family will be in my thoughts and prayers.
