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Obituary: Hubert Blanchard, Jr. Football 1951, 52, 55, 56 and Military Veteran 53,54, 55Hubert Blanchard Jr. ObituaryObituary for Hubert M. Blanchard, Jr. Hubert Michael “Frenchie” Blanchard, Jr. peacefully departed this life on September 21st, surrounded by his beloved wife of 66 years, Selma, his four children, and several grandchildren. He was a shining beacon of joy and love, leaving behind a legacy that will resonate forever in the hearts of those who knew him. Born in rural Assumption Parish, Louisiana on December 1st, 1932, Hubert was immersed in a French-speaking culture that cherished faith, family, and unwavering friendship. As the second of seven children born to Hubert and Eloyt Blanchard, he became the first in his family to earn a college degree, achieving this milestone through a football scholarship at Southwestern Louisiana Institute in Lafayette (now UL, the University of Louisiana). After serving two years in the Army during the Korean War, Hubert returned to college, where he not only excelled in football but also met the love of his life, Selma Faulk. The couple married in 1958, embarking on a journey that took them from Louisiana to Tucker, Georgia, in 1969. In Tucker, Hubert’s vibrant spirit flourished as he engaged in his community, attending Holy Cross Catholic Church and fostering deep friendships with neighbors along Goodfellows Road. Stone Mountain became a favorite golfing and activity spot. He cherished family gatherings, often returning to Louisiana for milestones and celebrations, and creating lasting memories during vacations at Panama City Beach. His love for his alma mater led him to become president of the Letterman’s Club in Lafayette and to help found the Atlanta chapter of the UL Alumni Association, Ragin’ Cajun club, where he served as an officer for many years. Hubert’s infectious joie de vivre enriched every aspect of his life. He led conch-blowing sunset celebrations at the beach, emceed Mardi Gras balls at the Fox Theatre in Atlanta, and took great joy in cooking for large gatherings, whether for UL Alumni crawfish boils, family events, fraternity parties, or employee appreciation celebrations at Continental Can Company, where he worked as a salesman for over 30 years. Hubert overcame an alcohol addiction on October 12th, 1979, by the power of the Holy Spirit and an incredible support community through Alcoholics Anonymous. He continued these deep relationships through weekly meetings until his death. His greatest joy came from making children laugh, whether through magic card tricks, ghost stories, playing “worms” on the piano, or leading the chicken dance. Hubert never outgrew his playful spirit, bringing smiles and laughter to all around him. Hubert leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and a profound appreciation for life. He was preceded in death by his parents, Hubert and Eloyt, infant son Donald James, sisters Virges (Louis) LeBlanc and LeeAnna Papet (Louis), brothers Joe (tippy), OJ, and Larry. He is survived by Selma, children Michele (Malcolm) Meijer, Hubert III (Julie), John (Lori) and Anne McRae (Chad); 9 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren, and sister Cathy (David) Landry, along with a vast extended family who will forever treasure his spirit and memory. A funeral mass and celebration of life will be held at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Tucker, on Monday September 30th at 11am, followed by visitation. A private family burial will follow on October 1st at Honey Creek Woodlands in Conyers. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the UL Alumni: Atlanta Ragin’ Cajun Club. https://www.givecampus.com/campaigns/52384/donations/new? Rest in peace, Hubert. Your joy for life will continue to inspire us all. Obituary provided by John Claude Arceneaux, UL Alumni Staff.
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