Lillian Elizabeth Blanchard

Lillian Blanchard, 90, passed away May 30, 2020 in Grand Prairie, Texas. She was born July 30, 1929 in Corinth, Mississippi to Noah S. Sweat and Vivien C. Dorsey Sweat. She had two older brothers and a twin sister. Lillian was raised in Corinth, and graduated from Corinth High School, then continued her education at the University of Mississippi, where she received a Bachelor’s Degree in May 1951. While attending Ole Miss, she met the love of her life and future husband, Don Blanchard.

Lillian and Don married on October 5, 1951 at the First Methodist Church in Corinth. While living in Mississippi they had two sons, Don Jr. and Pat. In 1955, Don and Lillian moved their family to Grand Prairie, Texas for Don to continue his teaching, coaching, and administrative career with the Grand Prairie ISD. Meanwhile, Lillian left a secretarial position in Dallas to become a teacher with Grand Prairie, also. She began her career teaching typing and shorthand at Grand Prairie HS, and then moved to South Grand Prairie HS as their first Vocational Office Education teacher. She remained in that position until she retired.

Lillian and Don enjoyed square dancing, playing bridge and traveling across the country and in Europe. She also enjoyed numerous trips with Don as he played Senior Softball. She was also an avid reader and active in several women’s clubs, including the Women’s Club of Grand Prairie. Plus, she was involved with the local retired teacher’s group and was a lifetime member of the Methodist Church. Lillian enjoyed spending time with her family and leaves a lasting legacy with her family, her former students, and her fellow colleagues. She will be missed by her family, her many friends, and everyone who knew her.

Lillian was preceded in death by her lifetime love and husband, of 63 years, Don, Sr. in July 2015 and her parents, her two brothers, Dr. Tommy Sweat, Noah “Soggy” Sweat, and her beloved twin sister, Vivien “Ta” Comfort.

She is survived by her son Don Jr. and wife Dora of Van Alstyne, son Pat and his wife Wendy of Plano, grandchildren Felicia Hudson, Melissa Hagood and husband Josh, Brie Garlock and husband Wesley. She also has five great grandchildren, Brandon Hagood, Emily Hagood, Kolston Hudson, Lily Garlock, and Graeme Garlock.

Due to Covid-19 restrictions, there will be a private service held for Lillian on Wednesday. It will be led by Rev. Kathryn Strempke of the First United Methodist Church. Pallbearers will be Pat Langwith, Steve Blanchard, Phil Bailey, Paul May, and David Pecor. Lillian will be laid to rest with her deceased husband Don at the DFW National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Grand Prairie Food Co-op, First United Methodist Church, or to a charity of your choice.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.beanmasseyburge.com for the Blanchard family.