Michael Paul Blanchard

Mike Blanchard, age 83 of Gatesville, passed away Tuesday, November 11, 2025.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Monday, November 17, 2025 at Scott’s Funeral Home with Pastor Lynn Parks officiating. Interment will follow at Mound Cemetery. The family will receive visitors one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.

Michael Paul Blanchard was born September 29, 1942 to the late Stephen and Gladys Clawson Blanchard in Waco, Texas. He was raised in the Ireland Community and attended school in Ireland, Jonesboro, and Gatesville, graduating from Gatesville High School in 1960. He went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in education from Tarleton State University and later received a master’s degree from North Texas State University. 

Mike began his teaching career in 1964 at the Gatesville State School for Boys. He later taught for one year in the Copperas Cove Independent School District before joining Gatesville Independent School District in 1979. During his years with Gatesville ISD, he taught World Geography, Economics, and Government, retiring in May 1997 after more than three decades of dedicated service in education.

Mike married Billie Lee on November 24, 1966, and together they made their home in Gatesville. They were blessed with two children, Stephen and Shelly. Following his retirement, he and Billie enjoyed traveling extensively, visiting all but five states. Mike was an avid golfer and also enjoyed hunting and fishing. He served on the Gatesville City Council and was a member of the Retired Teachers Association. He and Billie were longtime members of Eastwood Baptist Church, where Mike served as a Deacon for many years.

Mike was a member of the Gatesville Masonic Lodge, #197 A.F. & A.M., Karem Shrine, and Waco Scottish Rite. He entered the Gatesville Masonic Lodge in 1979 as an Entered Apprentice and became a Master Mason in 1980. He served as Worshipful Master from 1984-1985 and as secretary from 1985-2014. Mike received the Golden Trowel Award in 1993, which is the highest honor bestowed on a Mason. He also served as the District Deputy Grand Master from 1988-1989.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents, and brother-in-law, David Witty. He is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Billie Blanchard; children, Stephen Blanchard, and Shelly Gummelt and husband, Jack; sister, Joy Witty; grandchild, Madison Gummelt; nieces and nephews; and his cat, Daisy.