Ronald "Ron" Blanchard

Ronald G. Blanchard of Oak Island, NC, formerly of Hendersonville, NC, passed away at Duke University Medical Center on March 31, 2021.  

Graveside Service with military honors will be held on Saturday, May 15th at 12:00 Noon at Sunrise Memorial Gardens in Salemburg with Rev. Byron Bass officiating. 

Ron was born on July 14, 1948 in Roseboro, NC, to the late Willard Jackson Blanchard and Crotia Bass Blanchard of Sampson County. Growing up in Salemburg, NC, Ron played football and basketball at Roseboro-Salemburg High School. He then attended Wake Forest University, majoring in English and participating in ROTC. After graduating, he joined the US Army as a second lieutenant. He then taught English at Southwood College before pursuing his law degree at North Carolina Central University School of Law. Ron practiced as a trial attorney in Hendersonville, NC, and quickly made a name for himself. His true genius and passion for the law were apparent each time he set foot in the courtroom. He was a member of the Henderson County Bar Association, the NC Bar Association, the NC Academy of Trial Lawyers, and the Association of Trial Lawyers of America. He established his own practice and eventually took on two law partners, Greg Newman and Jason Blackwell. Along with Boyd Massagee, Greg and Jason were among Ron's closest friends.

In addition to practicing law, Ron's other great loves were traveling, fishing, sailing, reading, gardening, and his beloved dog Snoodles. Ron lived life to the fullest with his adventurous and charismatic nature, and captivated audiences with his riveting storytelling. Although Italy was his favorite destination, the Ocean is where he felt most at peace. Consequently, he moved to Oak Island, NC, to enjoy his last few years near water and family. 

Ron is survived by his family: a brother, Willard Jackson Blanchard, Jr. (Phyllis Woods) of Wilmington; two sisters, Gwendolyn Blanchard Roberson (Earl) of Wilmington and Carolyn V. Blanchard (Alan Daniels) of Raleigh; a nephew, Willard Jackson Blanchard III (Crystal); three nieces, Crotia Garner (Chris Fowler), Gwendolyn Roberson, and Caroljane Roberson (David Molta); two great-nephews, Aaron (Brittany) and Jacob Blanchard; a great-niece, Elizabeth Blanchard; and two great-great nieces, Emily and Claire Blanchard.  He is also survived by his most cherished and devoted companion, Tascha Sewalish.

Ron was truly "one of a kind" in all aspects of life, as his friends and family well know.  He will be greatly missed, and will forever remain in our hearts. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society or to one's favorite charity. 

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