Obituary of Richard R. Blanchard

Richard R. Blanchard of Kingston, died September 23, 2012, after a brief illness, but between that death date and January 26, 1916, there was a remarkably long, involved and interesting life. A Brockton native, he attended the New England Conservatory of Music and remained a music love all his 96 years, singing on key well into his octogenerian years. He was predeceased by his wife, Frances. A railroad dispatcher, he retired with an interest in trains that led him to be deeply involved in a museum in Maine. A loyal member of the Kingston Baptist Church on Main Street, he promoted all sorts of charities and his church to the end. A service of celebration of a long life will be held at the Kingston Baptist Church on Sunday, October 7th at 2:00 PM, to which all are invited. A subsequent sprinkling of his ashes will take place after the service at his home at 10 Westerly Avenue, Kingston. A Navy veteran of World War II, he distinguished himself in service to his country and was deafened by the "big guns". Recently, he got a modern tech hearing aid and smiled, hearing perfectly for the first time. Invitations have been sent literally cross-country to friends and an overflow attendance is expected. Rev. Joshua Jinno, Pastor and Rev. Dr. Irving Beveridge, Pastor Emeritus will conduct the service of memorial and celebration. He is survived by nephews and nieces. Memorial gifts may be given to the Kingston Baptist Church, 211 Main Street, Kingston, MA 02364.