Kevin Gerard Blanchard, devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, faithful servant of Christ, United States Navy veteran, musician, and hospice volunteer, entered the presence of his Lord and Savior on Saturday, July 18, 2026, at the age of 80. He passed peacefully in Palm Bay, Florida, with his beloved wife at his side and his children nearby.

Born on February 2, 1946, in Lima, Ohio, to Theodore L. and Genevieve Blanchard, Kevin lived a life defined by faith, service, compassion, music, and unwavering devotion to his family. Whether serving his country, encouraging fellow believers through worship, comforting hospice patients, or quietly praying for those he loved, Kevin sought to honor God in every season of his life.

Kevin was preceded in death by his parents, Theodore L. and Genevieve Blanchard; his siblings, Kathryn Swager and Ted Blanchard; and his great-granddaughter, Rhylynn Risner.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 53 years, Sharon (Pugsley) Blanchard; his children, Rebecca Cook, Patrick Blanchard, Kelly Blanchard, Sarah Leon, Nathan Blanchard, and Joseph Blanchard; his cherished grandchildren, Kayla Bridges, Eryn Cook, Isabella Leon, Tia Risner, Tommy Risner, and Michael Risner; and his treasured great-grandchildren, Malakai Bridges, Aaliyah Bridges, Wesley Scurry Cook, Lexie Tilton, Jayvin Keels, Kynzleigh Risner, Peyton Risner, and Emery Risner.

He is also survived by his siblings, David Blanchard, Mark Blanchard, Matthew Blanchard, Bridget Blanchard, and Stephen Blanchard. Kevin also leaves behind many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, dear friends, and brothers and sisters in Christ whose lives were enriched by his love, faith, and example.

Kevin attended St. Gerard Catholic School and graduated from Lima Central Catholic High School. He continued his education at St. Mary's College in North East, Pennsylvania, and later attended The Ohio State University.

On November 22, 1966, Kevin answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Navy. He served honorably until October 19, 1970, attaining the rank of Hospital Corpsman Third Class. During the Vietnam War, he was stationed at the Naval Hospital in St. Albans, New York, and aboard the USS Sanctuary. He was also a proud member of the Navy's Blue Jacket Choir, where he combined his love of music with his service to his country. Following his active-duty service, Kevin continued serving as an Airman in the United States Air Force Reserve until August 18, 1978.

Following his military service, Kevin dedicated his career to public service as a Corrections Officer at Oakwood Correctional Facility, serving with integrity, compassion, and professionalism.

Music was one of Kevin's lifelong gifts and greatest joys. As a young man in Lima, he played the organ and sang at St. Gerard Catholic Church. After moving to Florida, he faithfully served for many years as pianist and vocalist on the worship team at Cornerstone Church of Palm Bay. He treasured serving on the worship team not only because of his love for music, but because it provided an opportunity to worship and glorify his Savior and Heavenly Father.

Kevin also devoted countless hours to serving others as a volunteer with St. Francis Hospice. He lovingly spent time reading to patients, offering companionship, and participating in Honor Pinning ceremonies recognizing veterans receiving hospice care. In 2024, he was honored with a 10-year service pin in recognition of a decade of faithful volunteer service. He genuinely loved the patients, families, volunteers, and staff at St. Francis Hospice, and those relationships brought him tremendous joy.

Kevin found joy in life's simple pleasures. He loved reading, playing rummy and euchre—where he earned a reputation as an exceptional player and an even better cheater—working crossword puzzles, and solving Sudoku. More than any hobby, however, he cherished spending time in God's Word and faithfully participated in the men's Bible study at Cornerstone Church. Prayer was central to his life, and he faithfully lifted up his wife, his family, and the needs of others before the Lord.

Kevin will be remembered for his steadfast faith, unwavering devotion to his family, remarkable musical gifts, servant's heart, and quiet humility. His life reflected a deep love for God that overflowed into faithful service to his family, his church, his country, and everyone whose life he touched. His legacy of faith, compassion, music, and service will continue to inspire all who knew and loved him.

A Celebration of Kevin's Life will be held on Friday, July 24, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. at Cornerstone Church of Palm Bay, 901 Talplin St. SE, Palm Bay, FL 32909.

Kevin's family finds comfort in knowing that the hope which sustained him throughout his life has now become sight. They rejoice that he is in the presence of the Savior he faithfully loved and served.

"Blessed is he whose help is the God of Jacob, whose hope is in the Lord his God." — Psalm 146:5

Condolences and memories of Kevin Blanchard may be shared with the family online at www.davisseawinds.com.