Mr. John Munro Blanchard, Jr. Mr. John Munro Blanchard, Jr., age 60, of Calhoun, Georgia, departed this life Friday morning, May 22, 2026, at his home.

John was born May 17, 1966, in Somerset County, Maine, a son of Edith Starbird Blanchard and the late John M. Blanchard, Sr. He was also preceded in death by his sister, Sheryl Blanchard.

A proud patriot, John honorably served his country in the United States Army, carrying with him a deep love for America throughout his life. He spent more than twenty-five years as a truck driver, a profession that reflected his fiercely independent spirit, strong work ethic, and determination to provide for those he loved. Most recently, he worked with J.L.S. Transport Services as a pilot driver. John was known as a sarcastic, opinionated Yankee — a title he embraced with pride and humor. Beneath his outspoken personality was a deeply caring man whose love for his family ran strong. Independent by nature and steadfast in his convictions, John cared deeply for others and remained devoted to those closest to him. His family was one of the greatest joys of his life, and he treasured the time spent with his children, grandchildren, and loved ones. Though he often expressed himself with wit and stubbornness, those who knew him best understood the kindness and compassion that defined his heart.

He will be remembered for his loyalty, his love of country, his unwavering independence, and the care he showed to family and friends. His presence will be greatly missed, but the memories he leaves behind will remain cherished.

He is survived by his loving wife, Janie Ray Blanchard of the residence; mother, Edith Starbird Blanchard of Warrior, Alabama; children, John M. and Jessica Blanchard, III, of Dandridge, Tennessee, Jennifer and William McGee of Ranger, Georgia, Samuel and Abigail Ray of Ashburn, Georgia, Jessie Ray of Jasper, Georgia, Jenny and Jeremy Lewis of Florence, South Carolina, and Brandy Lanham of Fairmount, Georgia; grandchildren, Jaiden, Aiden, and Mallory Blanchard, Hale McGee, Dakota and Bryson Crisp, Shelby Burk, Samantha and Breezy Murphy, Olivia Lewis, Brady, Hunter, and Charity Autry, and Whitley and Alex Ray; great-grandchildren, Delaney Murphy and Jasper Crisp; niece and nephews, Megan and Max Menard and Keegan Blanchard, all of Warrior, Alabama; several aunts, uncles, extended family members, and friends also survive.

Services to celebrate the life of Mr. John Munro Blanchard, Jr., will be held Friday morning, May 29, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Ponders Fairmount Chapel with Reverend Mark Owens and Reverend Jason Pace officiating. He will be laid to rest at the Johnson cemetery in Fairmount, Georgia, with Brady Autry, Hunter Autry, William McGee, Jeremy Lewis, Bryson Crisp, and Joe Burk honored to serve as pallbearers. The family will receive friends at Ponders Fairmount Chapel from 5:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. Thursday and after 9:00 a.m. Friday morning until the service hour.

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Ponders Fairmount Chapel 2566 Highway 411, Fairmount, Georgia 30139, 706-337-3784