Robert "Bob" Blanchard

Robert Blanchard Sr. , of Jonesboro passed from this life on July 17, 2018 at the Craighead Nursing Center. Born in Gardena California on July 11, 1924, he was raised in Jonesboro and enlisted in the U. S. Navy in January 1943, then in the U.S. Air Force in September 1947.  He served continuously until honorably discharged in June 1964 with the rank of Master Sargent. Robert served his country in the Pacific Theatre in WWII and in Korea during the Korean War and into the Viet Nam War.  He subsequently graduated with a BSE and then a Masters Degree in Education from ASU.  Mr. Blanchard taught history and geography at Jonesboro High School from 1969 through 1977.  He was an active member of the Fisher Street United Methodist Church.  After leaving his teaching career, Bob and Margaret were active foster parents for several years for Methodist children’s homes.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Margaret E. Blanchard, his parents Thomas and Pearl Blanchard, his son Christopher D. Blanchard Sr., two brothers, one grandson, one great grandson and one son-in-law.

Survivors include 6 children; Ginni Robertson of Birmingham; Brenda Sparks, Diane Walker, Dr. Steven Blanchard, Gladys Blanchard all of Jonesboro; Robert Blanchard Jr., of Vermillion S.D.; 13 grandchildren, 22 great grandchildren and 4 great great grandchildren.

A memorial service will be 2:00 PM, Saturday, July 28, 2018 with Paul Horner officiating and under the direction of Emerson Funeral Home. A private burial with full military honors will be held at a later time.  Visitation will be from 1:00 until service time on Saturday, July 28, 2018.

For lasting memorials, please consider the Fisher Street United Methodist Church, 311 Fisher Street, Jonesboro, Arkansas 72401, or a charity of your choice.  To sign an online registry go to emersonfuneralhome.com.