Theodore "Ted" Blanchard

December 24, 1935 – January 24, 2026

Jensen Beach, FL – Theodore Niles “Ted” Blanchard, 90, of Hutchinson Island, passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 24, 2026, at his home of nearly 40 years surrounded by family. Born December 24, 1935, in Troy, NY, Ted was the beloved husband of the late Barbara A. Blanchard.

Ted’s life was filled with dedication – to his work, his community, and most of all, his family. He cherished summers on Crooked Lake in Averill Park, NY, serving as the family’s unofficial boat captain, happily towing his children, nieces and nephew for hours of water skiing and tubing.

A 1954 graduate of Watervliet High School in upstate NY, Ted remained a proud supporter of WHS athletics. He served four years in the Naval Reserves and attended the Junior College of Albany. As a teenager, he worked for Cramer Home Heating, owned by his stepfather John E. Cramer and his mother Alyce C. Sachs Cramer. Following his stepfather’s unexpected passing, Ted became the young co-owner of the business, helping his mother sustain and grow the company. He and his wife Barb also owned/operated Blanchard’s Gas Station beside the Watervliet Arsenal. Upon moving to Florida, Ted began a fulfilling new chapter as a property manager at Island Dunes.

Known for his unmatched work ethic, Ted routinely began his days before dawn and worked long hours to ensure no one went without heat during New York’s harsh winters. He balanced hard work with hobbies he loved – bowling, golfing at Van Schaick Island Country Club, and playing backgammon and cards with family and friends. For Ted, bragging rights were more important than winning a dollar or two!

A devoted caregiver, Ted lovingly cared for his wife Barbara throughout her eight year journey with younger-onset dementia, ensuring she remained at home until her passing. His compassion extended to all – from family to neighbors to the communities he served. He shared his love through cooking, especially for gatherings, often making his popular ambrosia and potato salad. Ted served on the boards of the Watervliet Civic Center and Empress Condominium Association, was a member of Watervliet Elks Lodge #1500, and an Elder at Jermain Memorial Presbyterian Church.

Ted was predeceased by his wife Barbara A. Blanchard, his grandson Thomas Unser, and his sister Patricia Manley. He is survived by his five children: Bonnie Blanchard Unser (Tim), Robert J. Blanchard (Jennifer), Brian Lifford (Becki), Joanne Lifford Carr (Cliff), and David Lifford (Lisa Michaud). Ted was blessed with ten grandchildren and five great-grandchildren, the youngest of whom visited in November. Ted was so excited for their visit that he stocked up on juice boxes and snacks – more than was necessary, of course. He also leaves behind his brother-in-law John McDonald (Barbara) and sister-in-law Maureen Zarnofsky.

Ted treasured his friendships and was deeply moved by the love shown at his 90th birthday celebration at the Empress in December. His family expresses profound gratitude to the friends and neighbors who supported him so faithfully, checking on him daily and communicating with family near and far. Special appreciation goes to Jamie, Ron, Pat and Bill, with more acknowledgments to be shared at his Celebration of Life.

The family will receive relatives and friends on Saturday, March 7, beginning at 11:30 a.m. at Aycock Funeral Home, 950 NE Jensen Beach Blvd., Jensen Beach, FL. A Celebration Service will start at noon, with a reception that will follow. For those wishing to honor Ted’s memory and in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Treasure Coast Hospice ([email protected]). The family also extends heartfelt thanks to the Treasure Coast Hospice nurses – Claritha, Sodilia, Mirline, Jamie and Kelly – whose compassion and care helped honor Ted’s wish to pass peacefully at home and brought comfort to his loved ones.