A funeral service for Gilbert Blanchard, 73, will be held on Sunday, February 13, 2011, at 1:30 PM with burial at St. Edward's Cemetery in Richard. Deacon Gary Gaudin will preside. Gilbert passed away on Friday, February 11, 2011, at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital. Gilbert is survived by his children,Cindy Blanchard of Sterlington, LA, Francia Chassion of Carliss, LA , Vickie Hammon of Mamou,LA , Sandra Chassion of Erath, LA and Douglas McKey of Mamou, LA; sisters, Nora Carrrier & Herbert of Avondale, LA and Dolores Daigle & Robert of Eunice; 8 grandchildren. Gilbert was preceded in death by his wife Irma Dean Deville Blanchard; parents, Wilfred Blanchard and Merza Cradeur Smith; son, Robert Blanchard, Sr.. Also survived by a host of nieces and nephews. Visitation will begin on Saturday at 3 PM until 10 PM. A rosary will be prayed on Saturday evening at 6 PM by Deacon Gary Gaudin . The funeral home will reopen on Saunday at 8 AM.