Duane David Blanchard Sr., 64, of Bamberg, South Carolina, passed away peacefully on May 15, 2025, after a courageous battle with congestive heart failure. Born on March 20, 1961, in Dansville, New York, Duane leaves behind a legacy of warmth, humor, and generosity which will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew him. Duane was raised by his adoptive parents, the late Paul Leon Blanchard and Gertrude Blanchard in Caledonia, New York. He cherished the loving family environment that shaped his early years. Growing up, Duane demonstrated a natural talent for working with his hands—a passion he carried throughout his life. After graduating from high school, Duane proudly served his country in the United States Air Force. Throughout his life Duane took joy in cooking for everyone around whether it be at home or in restaurants. The best part was you never knew what ingredients he would use as it was always different each time. As he would say "If it looks good, smells good and tastes good then it should be good." Duane was an avid fisherman, always going for the largest catch, as he was going to catch fish and lots of them not just go fishing. From a young age he always found interest in taking things apart and putting them back together, especially anything electronic. He always found a way to fix what was broken no matter what it was. Duane found much joy in the little things in life and always had a big heart for helping others. Anyone that ever had the chance to meet him or spend any amount of time with him would likely tell you that he was generous, full of humor, and always did what he could to help someone if he was able. His presence and kindness will not go unnoticed. Duane is survived by his children Melissa and Richard Taylor of Bamberg, South Carolina and her 7 children Jonathan Kightlinger, Tristian Taylor, Savannah Taylor, Shannon Taylor, Triniti Taylor, Charles Taylor, and Emery Taylor; Jessica and Nicolas Mapes of New Market, Alabama and her 2 children Jailynn Mapes and Mason Mapes; Duane Blanchard Jr. of Carrollton, Georgia and his 3 children Skylar Blanchard and Dylan Blanchard of Caledonia, New York and Dawson Blanchard. He was a great-grandfather to 3 children Hunter and Eliana Vaughn and Renesmee Patterson. In addition to his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren he was survived by his ex-wife of 32 years Terry Blanchard of New Market, Alabama and his sisters Linda Hally of Avon, New York and Tina Ziegler of Warsaw, New York. Duane was predeceased by his adoptive parents mentioned above and his son, Michael Scott Blanchard, who passed away October 3, 2007. It was Duane's wishes to be cremated which will be performed by Cooner Funeral Home of Bamberg, South Carolina. Unfortunately, there will be no memorial service however, a celebration of life will be organized for a later date. He was loved by many and he will be missed dearly by all that ever got the chance to meet him. "What we once enjoyed and deeply loved we can never lose, for all that we love deeply becomes part of us" - Helen Keller Since a memorial service will not be held, in lieu of sending flowers, any donations can be sent to Cooner Funeral Home in Bamberg, South Carolina.