Mary Blanchard Obituary

Mary Rosalie Blanchard

Sullivan's Island - Miss Mary Rosalie Blanchard of Sullivan's Island, South Carolina, passed away peacefully on March 8, 2026, at the age of 92. A lifelong resident of Sullivan's Island, she proudly represented the sixth generation of her family to call the island home.

Mary was born in Charleston, South Carolina, on July 11, 1933, to John Blanchard, Sr. and Rosalie Blanchard. She was the eldest of five children and remained devoted throughout her life to her siblings: John, Agnes (deceased), Sophie (deceased), and her youngest brother, Gene.

Mary had a lifelong love of learning and education. She graduated magna cum laude from Bishop England High School and continued her studies at the College of Charleston, College of Misericordia, and through continuing education courses at The Citadel, where she earned her master's degree. During the school year, "Aunt Mary," as she was affectionately known, could often be found tutoring generations of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews. Over the years, she guided countless young people in English, Latin, French, and algebra. Mary also remained active in her sorority, Phi Mu, for many years.

Mary loved life on Sullivan's Island and cherished time spent by the ocean. She could often be seen driving her golf cart around the island, sharing lunches and picnics on the beach with family and friends, especially during holidays. She delighted in taking her nieces and nephews for golf cart rides and watching over them along the shore, often reminding them with her familiar words, "Don't go past your knees!"

She is survived by her beloved brothers, John and Gene (June); their families; a large extended family of nieces and nephews and the many students whose lives she touched through her encouragement and guidance.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the caring staff of Bishop Gadsden Episcopal Retirement Community, especially her devoted helper, Trinity, who made Mary's final years comfortable and joyful.

The family will receive friends on Monday, March 16, 2026, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at McAlister-Smith Funeral Home. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 AM at Stella Maris Catholic Church on Sullivan's Island. Burial will follow at Mount Pleasant Memorial Gardens in Mount Pleasant.

Mary will be remembered for her devotion to family, her love of learning, and the joy she found in the simple beauty of life on Sullivan's Island.

Expressions of sympathy may be viewed or submitted online at mcalister-smith.com.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to McAlister-Smith Funeral and Cremation, 1520 Rifle Range Road, Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464, (843) 884-3833.

We invite you to share a memory and sign our guest book.