Jay Blanchard

Floyd Jay Blanchard, 88, of Ashton, Idaho, passed away peacefully on July 11, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on May 14, 1936, in St. Anthony, Idaho, to Floyd and Rula Blanchard.

Jay, as he was known to friends and family, graduated from North Fremont High School and went on to attend Ricks College to play basketball. Tragically, during his freshman year, he contracted polio and had to withdraw from school. Despite this setback, Jay persevered and went on to lead a rich and fulfilling life.

He spent his early years farming in Ashton before transitioning to the insurance business. Jay later worked for the US Post Office, which led to his transfer to Utah. His career took him to Salt Lake City and then to Sandy, Utah. It was in Sandy where he met Uti, the love of his life, while square dancing. Jay and Uti shared 30 wonderful years together until her passing November 19, 2022.

Jay is survived by his children: Pam Peebles, Reiner Mathias (Ellie Ramos), Teresa McFarland, and Lance (Valorie) Blanchard; his brother Terry (Mariann) Blanchard; and sister Janette Blanchard. He was a proud grandfather to 10 grandchildren and 23 great-grandchildren. Jay was preceded in death by his wife Uti, his parents, his sister Helen & her husband Drex Davis, his niece Michelle Davis, granddaughter Sharee Peebles and great grandson Wilder Blanchard.

After a bad fall in September 2023, Jay moved to Fairwinds in Idaho Falls to be closer to his children, where he spent his final months.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, July 20, at the LDS Church, 1313 North 36oo E, Ashton, Idaho (Next to Pineview Cemetery, Ashton). The family will receive friends for a viewing at the church Saturday from 12:00 to 1:45 p.m. prior to services. Burial will be in the Pineview Cemetery under the direction of Baxter Funeral Home.

Jay will be remembered for his resilience, warm smile, and genuine love for others. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.