Hubert Michael Blanchard Jr.

1932 - 2024

Hubert Michael Blanchard, Jr., peacefully departed this life on September 21, surrounded by his beloved wife of 66 years, Selma, his four children, and several grandchildren. He was a shining beacon of joy and love, leaving behind a legacy that will resonate forever in the hearts of those who knew him. Born in rural Assumption Parish, Louisiana on December 1, 1932, Hubert was immersed in a French-speaking culture that cherished faith, family, and unwavering friendship. As the second of seven children born to Hubert and Eloyt Blanchard, he became the first in his family to earn a college degree, achieving this milestone through a football scholarship at Southwestern Louisiana Institute in Lafayette. After serving two years in the Army during the Korean War, Hubert returned to college, where he not only excelled in football but also met the love of his life, Selma Faulk. The couple married in 1958, embarking on a journey that took them from Louisiana to Tucker, Georgia, in 1969. In Tucker, Hubert's vibrant spirit flourished as he engaged in his community, attending Holy Cross Catholic Church and fostering deep friendships with neighbors along Goodfellows Road. He cherished family gatherings, often returning to Louisiana for milestones and celebrations, and creating lasting memories during vacations at Panama City Beach. His love for his alma mater led him to become president of the Letterman's Club in Lafayette and to help found the Atlanta chapter of the UL Alumni Association, Ragin' Cajun club, where he served as an officer for many years. Hubert's infectious joie de vivre enriched every aspect of his life. He led conch-blowing sunset celebrations at the beach, emceed Mardi Gras balls at the Fox Theatre in Atlanta, and took great joy in cooking for large gatherings, whether for UL Alumni crawfish boils, family events, or employee appreciation celebrations at Continental Can Company, where he worked as a salesman for over 30 years. Hubert overcame an alcohol addiction on October 12, 1979, by the power of the Holy Spirit and an incredible support community through Alcoholics Anonymous. He continued these deep relationships through weekly meetings until his death. Hubert leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and a profound appreciation for life. He was preceded in death by his parents, Hubert and Eloyt, infant son Donald James, sisters Virges (Louis) LeBlanc and LeeAnna Papet (Louis), brothers Joe (tippy), OJ, and Larry. He is survived by Selma, children Michele (Malcolm) Meijer, Hubert III (Julie), John (Lori) and Anne McRae (Chad); 9 grandchildren, Matthew Meijer (Shae), Ryan Meijer, Jack Meijer, Caroline Wang (Steven), Michael Blanchard (Morgan), Sarah Blanchard, Mitchell Blanchard (Katie), Kate Schmitz (Aaron) and William McRae. Five great-grandchildren: Colin and Charlotte Wang, Bruce and Elliot Blanchard and Nora Meijer and sister Cathy (David) Landry, along with a vast extended family who will forever treasure his spirit and memory. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Tucker, GA on Monday, September 30 at 11 a.m., followed by visitation. A private family burial will follow on October 1 at Honey Creek Woodlands in Conyers. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the UL Alumni: Atlanta Ragin' Cajun Club. https://www.givecampus.com/campaigns/52384/donations/new?