Rodney Michael Blanchard

Rodney Michael Blanchard, beloved father of Montana GraceAnn Blanchard and former spouse of his lifelong love, Michele Anglin Blanchard, passed away on Friday, February 6, 2026. He was the son of the late Randolph Joseph Blanchard, Jr. and the late Claire Mary Poirrier Puissegur. He was a lifelong resident of St. Bernard, Louisiana and was 60 years of age.

Spending the majority of his working years as a captain of oyster fishing boats, Rodney was a true son of the bayou. The saltwater ran deep in his veins, and his love for fishing, especially in “The Stump Jumper,” and life on the water reflected both his strength and his peace. He will be remembered as a man whose life was marked by joy, kindness, faith, and a generous heart.

Rodney was funny, lovable, thankful, and endlessly positive. He carried a glass-half-full mentality and rarely complained, even in the hardest of times. Content in the simple things, it did not take much to make him happy. He loved to laugh and, more than anything, loved making others laugh. Whether impersonating gospel legend James Cleveland on the way to church or nervously saying “awful wife” instead of “lawful wife” during his wedding vows, Rodney’s humor brought light to every room.

He was a good listener who gave his full attention no matter the topic. He was never judgmental, always forgiving, and genuinely happy for the good fortune of others. Loyal in friendship and generous in spirit, there was nothing he would not do for the people he loved. He gave the biggest bear hugs and carried himself with a warm smile, often dressed sharp in a suit and tie, proud of how he presented himself.

Rodney loved the outdoors deeply. He enjoyed cooking and was known for boiling what many say was the best shrimp around. He cherished beach vacations, Christmas celebrations, time at the Renaissance Festival, and simple days spent with family. He was especially proud of the last project he completed, building a new deck with his own hands, a labor of love that filled him with accomplishment and joy.

He had a tender heart for wildlife, especially the raccoons he faithfully fed each evening. In a special spot in the woods, he would sit and talk to God as they gathered around him. That place brought him peace. His love for God was central to who he was. He loved Black gospel music, respected the Word of God, and often spoke about going deeper in his faith. He recently joined Encounter Church under the leadership of Reverend Rigo Estrada, where he loved to worship. In his final days, he encouraged those he loved to press forward spiritually and to keep striving to do better. His goal for 2026 was to be more intentional and to keep pressing toward the mark.

Above all, Rodney loved his family. He loved his daughter, Montana, deeply and worked hard to be the best father he could be. He cherished the bonds he shared, including a lifelong love that endured in heart and spirit. In one of his final conversations, he exchanged simple but powerful words of love, a reflection of the tenderness that defined him.

Rodney was deeply loved. He will be remembered as fun, kind, generous, thoughtful, gentle, faithful, and full of life. His legacy is one of laughter, unwavering love, steadfast faith, and a heart that always chose to give more than it took.

Rodney is survived by his siblings, Randolph “Randy” J. Blanchard III, Gerardette “Gerrie” B. Golden (Jackie), and Neil G. Blanchard Sr.; his best friend of 41 years, Michael R. Anglin (Tracie); and a host of family and friends. He was preceded in death by his brother, Frankie B. Blanchard; sister-in-law, Faye S. Blanchard; and aunt, Glenda C. Derouen.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in Captain Rodney Blanchard’s honor: https://www.gofundme.com/manage/honoring-captain-rodney-blanchard

A celebration of life officiated by Reverend Rigo Estrada will be held on Friday, February 13, 2026, at St. Bernard Memorial Funeral Home, located at 701 W. Virtue St. in Chalmette, Louisiana. Visitation will begin at 9:00 a.m., followed by the funeral service at 11:00 a.m. Rodney will be laid to eternal rest in St. Bernard Memorial Gardens.