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Joseph Blanchard Obituary
January 6, 1962 - July 14, 2022
Charleston, South Carolina - Joseph Rozier Blanchard passed away Thursday, July 14, 2022 surrounded by loved ones at his home in Charleston, South Carolina. Born in Winter Park, Florida on January 6, 1962 to George Robert Blanchard and Judith Katherine Rozier, Joe grew up with his three siblings in Tampa, Florida. During his childhood, Joe worked at his grandfather's machinery company, the Joseph L. Rozier Machinery Co., where he fell in love with the industry that was his life-long career.
Upon moving to South Carolina in 1987, Joe Blanchard has been an invaluable asset to the state. A strong business leader since becoming President of Blanchard Machinery Company in 1996, Joe not only grew the dealership to more than 700 employees across 12 branches statewide but he made a lasting impact on South Carolina businesses and communities as a whole.
Joe, who served as the Chairman of the Board for Columbia College, was awarded the institution's 2014 Medallion Award. Joe was inducted into the South Carolina Business Hall of Fame in 2015 in recognition of his many achievements. In 2019, Joe was named Business Leader of the Year by the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce. In 2021, Joe was named the University of South Carolina's Honorary Life Member for his contributions to the university and the community.
In addition to his many achievements, Joe served on numerous boards and committees. At the time of his death, Joe was a member of the Palmetto Business Forum, a board member for Blue Cross Blue Shield of South Carolina, South Carolina Council on Competitiveness, and the Columbia Museum of Art, where he has previously served as Chairman of the Board. Joe was also the current Chairman of the Board for the South Carolina Mining Council.
Joe, along with his wife Melissa, was an avid arts lover and philanthropist in the state. The Blanchards sponsored many art exhibits that have brought countless visitors to the Columbia Museum of Art. The Blanchards also worked alongside Habitat for Humanity, The Riverbanks Society and Harvest Hope.
A very accomplished man, Joe Blanchard loved the state of South Carolina and was fortunate to call it home for 35 years. He was awarded the Order of the Palmetto, the highest civilian honor in the state, by Governor Henry McMaster before his death. His lasting impact on the state and his influence will be felt forever.
But, out of all his accomplishments and achievements, his family is his greatest legacy. Joe's home was the site of countless dinners among friends and family where he was known to serve the best wine and laugh often. Joe is predeceased by his father Bob, his mother Judy and his stepmother Sharon. Joe was the proud husband of Melissa, father of Rozier (Carrie), Boyd (Emilie), and Katherine (Davis), and grandfather of Harper, Bo, Henry, and Joe III. He is survived by his loving family, sister Elizabeth Blanchard; brothers Bob Jr. (Linda) and Bill Blanchard; stepbrother Bartley Rice (Charity) and his 16 nieces and nephews.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Habitat for Humanity, the Riverbanks Zoo, and Harvest Hope. A celebration of his incredible life will be held on Saturday, July 23, 2022 at the Township Auditorium in Columbia, South Carolina at 11:00 am. All are welcome with love and appreciation.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Joseph Blanchard
Charles Elfert
July 9, 2025
Joe left us way too soon. His contributions to our state will be with us long after his passing.
Charles Elfert
July 9, 2024
I met Joe when he first moved to Columbia. I was fortunate to be his personal insurance agent. After our first meeting I knew Joe would accomplish great things in our state. I was honored to know him.
Bryce Neal
January 20, 2024
I'm a old childhood friend of Joe and the family. I was sadden to hear of his passing. I spent much time at both Blanchards homes in Tampa as a young boy. We spent a lot of time in the wood multi story fort. I recall Joe was a kind and good friend as were all the kids. Rest in peace Joe. And condolences to the family.
Carole FLynn Roof
July 28, 2022
I am so sad to hear of the passing of Joe. He was an incredible person and I know he is missed by Melissa and his entire family. Love and prayers to the whole family.
Erline K. Smith
July 23, 2022
Sincere condolences to the Blanchard family.
Craig and Mary Musick
July 23, 2022
We were so saddened to hear of the death of Joe. Our sympathy to Melissa and the children.
Pastor, Elder Isaac V. Cropp Jr
July 23, 2022
PASTOR, ELDER ISAAC V. CROPP JR. & Family
P. O. BOX 138, ANDREWS, SC 29510
EVENING LIGHT C. O. G., LAURENS SC & FIRST C. O. G., GEORGETOWN SC
July 23, 2022
IN LOVING MEMORY OF MR. JOSEPH ROZIER BLANCHARD SR
To Mrs. Mellissa Blanchard and family:
Our Hearts mourn with you in the passing of your husband, Mr. Joseph Rozier Blanchard Sr. It is with profound sorrow, compassion, and love I send prayers and condolences to you, Mrs. Melissa Blanchard, Mrs. Katherine Blanchard-whittle, Mr. Rozier Blanchard (Carrie), and Mr. Boyd Blanchard (Emilee), all the Blanchard Family, Friends, The Blanchard Caterpillar Corporation, and all Business Associates. I write this letter on behalf of all my family whom Mr. Joseph Rozier Blanchard Sr. life has touched in so many ways and times over the years.
My heart and mind go back to how you, Melissa, and Joe, employed our daughter, Christina L. Cropp - Watson when she graduated from the University of South Carolina to work at Pickles & Ice Cream, Glow Maternity, Valjean, and Pout in Columbia. I appreciate the love you have shown Christina and I truly respect and admire Joe´s commitment to promoting and developing so many others. When Nathaniel, our third son needed a job, Joe´s Caterpillar Company hired him and assisted him in becoming a Project Manager. However, the story does not stop there, When Nathaniel´s daughter, Lea Noel Cropp died at about six months old, the support my son and family received from Joe, You and the Blanchard Caterpillar Company helped us beyond what many employers and companies do for their employees. Mr. Joe Blanchard´s and your kindness and love continued blessing us during Christina´s wedding announcement and her wedding.
One poet said, "THE GOOD MEN DO LIVE LONG AFTER THEM;" YES, JOE HAS LEFT GREAT FOOTPRINTS IN THE SANDS OF LIFE AND HE WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN. His humanitarian contributions to the world are many and they give others a path and light in the path of life to follow.
Mr. Joseph Blanchard will truly never die, his love and work lives on through and in all of us whose lives Joe touched and those we now are able to touch because of the foundations he laid and the many things he did for us, the state of South Carolina, and the world! Joe was the wind beneath so many people, even though he is not present today in the flesh but know that the spirit of his love and contributions live on through many of us.
I am so deeply sorry that we never really were able to sit down and just talk, due to the business of both our lives, but he was a God blessed hero who has enabled many to fly! You have truly left powerful footprints in the world!
Mr. Joseph Rozier Blanchard Sr. has been a bright light in these very troubled times in which we live; The Word of God instructs mankind, and I am compelled to share in my closing below.
"LET YOUR LIGHT SHINE BEFORE MEN, THAT THEY MAY SEE YOUR GOOD WORKS, AND GLORIFY YOUR FATHER WHICH IS IN HEAVEN'' (Matt. 5:16 KJV)
Prayers Of Heartfelt Sympathy, Love and Condolences,
Pastor, Elder Isaac V. Cropp
Chris Davis
July 22, 2022
Joe was such a great person. He really cared about his employees. My condolences to the Blanchard family!
Tina Torres
July 22, 2022
Joe Blanchard and his team built my home thru Habitat for Humanity in 1997. Because of him and the BLANCHARD (CAT) family/team, my daughters and I were able to live without fear and have a stable foundation. My daughters graduated high school and college because we had a home that belonged to us. When Blanchard teamed up with Habait for Humanity to build my home, I don't think Joe really knew how 20+ years later I would still feel blessed and overjoyed. Joe...you and HFH saved my life. I cannot say enough about how thankful I am to GOD for him. He paved the way for my family to know about homeownership, what it was like to have a porch to sit on and have wine and family dinners. It saddens me that he is no longer here however I know GOD couldn't wait to see you walk thru those pearly gates. Thank you GOD for sharing JOE with me and my family. Thank you!!! May you rest in peace JOE and much love to your sons and daughter. I still have the picture of them and my girls when they planted the tree in front my new house at the time. Thank you...Thank you...
Bill Mayo
July 21, 2022
I am so sad to hear of Joe's passing. I can hardly believe it. Joe was gracious, kind, and a man I truly admired. My condolences to the family. This is such a shock, and I add my prayers for sweet memories to sustain you during this time of grief.
Greg McGilton
July 20, 2022
It was a pleasure to work for Joe! He always knew my name and what was going on with my family.
Michelle Nunn
July 20, 2022
Extending my deepest sympathies. May God hold you, help you, and see you through. We will keep the family in our thoughts and prayers.
MARY GLENN LANDT
July 20, 2022
Many memories of Joe from time at Oxford College of Emory University. Condolences to the family.
Aiken Steeplechase Association
July 20, 2022
Our hearts are sad at the news of Joes passing. We will keep Melissa and the family in our thoughts and prayers.
Joe was an extraordinary man, our organization was blessed by his generosity, and we are so grateful to have known him.
Amy Landau
July 20, 2022
Joe was a wonderful person. I am so sorry for your loss. I know he loved his family deeply.
Tim Maguire
July 20, 2022
I had the privilege of interacting with Joe at many Cat dealer meetings over the years. He was one of the most positive people I ever met. He will be missed by many.
Roy Kramer
July 20, 2022
Joe was one of the finest men I have ever met.
In my 27 years with Habitat for Humanity here in the Midlands he was always there to help. My heart goes out to his family and all his employees. He will be truly missed
Rest In Peace my friend
Larry Perdue
July 20, 2022
The character of the person shall never be forgotten, This apple did not fall far from the tree and a great tree it was
Mike Dodd (Oceanagold New Zealand)
July 19, 2022
To the Blanchard family
I knew Joe for only a short time while over working at Haile and enjoyed his company very much. Sorry for your loss,
Sharon Bonaparte
July 19, 2022
My deepest condolences to the family. Joe was such a nice person and made everyone feel like family. Prayers to the family
Gordon and Wendy Regans
July 18, 2022
Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire family. Joe will be greatly missed!
Toby Wiggers
July 18, 2022
I met Joe before I ever worked for Blanchard Cat. I owned a Fed Ex route in the area of his Columbia home. One day I had a delivery of several cases of wine for him. Before unloading them I went to make sure there was someone home. Joe answered the door and I told him what I had. He proceeded to follow me to the truck, before I new it he was in my truck helping unload the cases. I told him that he didn´t need to do that. He responded with I don´t mind helping Toby. I asked him how he new my name he told me that his wife (who owned a store on Devine St that I delivered to) told him who I was and that I was a very hard working and courteous. He told me that it was his pleasure to help me and that he was glad and that he finally got to meet me. I knew then that I wanted to work for Blanchard Cat. Two month´s later I applied and got the job. During my time there Joe would walk around occasionally and check on his employees and he new each one by first name. It was a pleasure to know and work for a man that cared so much for his employees and family. RIP Mr Blanchard.
Lisa Jackson
July 18, 2022
Joe was an awesome individual. His presence will definitely be missed. Praying for peace and comfort for the Blanchard family during this time.
L. Jackson
Jo H.
July 18, 2022
My deepest condolences to the Blanchard Family for the loss of your loved one, Joseph Rozier, and pray God gives you comfort, peace and strength during this difficult time.
Nancy and Mike Jones
July 18, 2022
Our deepest condolences to Joe´s entire family.
Nancy and Mike Jones
Charleston
Robert Bloodworth
July 18, 2022
Very sorry to hear this news, but what a legacy he leaves behind. Looked up to Joe in our high school days and my sincere condolences go out to his family and friends.
Sammy Simmons
July 17, 2022
The Caterpillar dealership family loss a great man to early. Our prayers are with his family during this time.
Jeff Brooker, MD, Columbia
July 17, 2022
Carrie, Rozier and all the Blanchard family:
Mr. Blanchard lived an outstanding life and greatly benefited the state of SC with his business acumen and generosity.
Mrs. Brooker (Rhoda) and I especially appreciated the Blanchard family's sponsorship of the outstanding Van Gogh exhibit at Columbia Museum of Art so timely scheduled at the end of 2019 just before the SARS2 pandemic descended on the United States and South Carolina.
We recognize that life can present highs and lows with enormous variability and offer condolences at this time of the loss of Mr. Blanchard.
Take care.
Sheila Bryant
July 17, 2022
My deepest condolences to the lost of a great man. Prayers for his family. To be absent from body is to be present with the the lord , love Sheila Bryant
Stewart Mungo
July 16, 2022
Joe was a great contributor to our community and well as a great guy. I´m sorry his grandchildren will not get the pleasure of getting to know him.
Our condolences to the family.
He will be missed.
Charles Elfert
July 16, 2022
I met Joe when he first moved to Columbia. Based on a referral from a friend Joe allowed me to become his insurance agent. I met with him on many occasions and he was a kind and gentle person. He will definitely be missed.
Tommy Martin w
July 16, 2022
1What a wonderful man. He will be missed greatly. He was a kind sincere man. I will never forget him. I appreciate the opportunity he gave me. I will continue to represent his legacy with the work ethic that he instilled upon us. We will miss him. My condolences to the family.
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