Rita Blanchard

Rita Louise Blanchard, a woman whose vibrant and colorful spirit influenced many, passed away on June 23, 2024, in her Cookeville, TN residence. Born on August 5, 1937, in Monroe, LA, Rita's life was a masterclass in the art of living boldly and leaving a legacy of laughter, learning, and love.

Rita, known for her sharp wit and even sharper diction, was a force to be reckoned with in the world of education. With a Bachelor's in Education and a Master's in Theater, she dedicated over 50 years to enlightening young minds across Louisiana, Texas, California, and Tennessee. She didn't just teach speech, theater, drama, history, and English; she breathed life into them. Whether producing plays, staging debates, or orchestrating mock trials, Rita ensured that the drama of the classroom was always educational and never dull.

Her work history wasn't confined to the four walls of the classroom. In California, Rita took her talents on the road, teaching for a mobile unit for student actors. And as if shaping the next generation of thespians wasn't enough, she also had been the director of four Sylvan Centers, real estate agent, jewelry maker, and tutor.

Speaking of interests, Rita's were as eclectic as her teaching methods. A voracious reader and writer, she had an insatiable appetite for the history of language and, of course, Shakespeare. When she wasn't poring over the Bard's works, she could be found on the hunt for treasures, indulging in her love of antiquing. And let's not forget that time at the ripe young age of 50 when she crashed the Dallas Demolition Derby as the only female competitor-literally.

Rita's life was a tapestry of adventure, intelligence, and intrigue. She was the kind of person who could discuss the finer points of Elizabethan literature and then, in the same breath, recount one of her many extraordinary experiences on her journey of life. Colorful and strong-minded, she never shied away from a challenge or an opportunity to stand out from the crowd.

Her family was the audience she cherished most. Rita is survived by her children, Mitch Blanchard (Becky), Jaida Campbell (Mike), Matt Blanchard, and Polly Blanchard; her grandchildren, Elizabeth and Nickolas Blanchard, Jacob Campbell (Leslie), Joel Campbell (Bekah), and Will Campbell (Tyler); and her six great-grandchildren, who will carry on her legacy of living life to the fullest.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Phillip Snider and Bessie Carr Snider; her husband, William Blanchard; and her sister, Phyllis Snider.

A Celebration of Life for Rita will be Friday, July 12 from 5:00 - 8:00 pm at the American Legion, 401 Forsythe Ave, Monroe, LA. She will be interred at Monroe Old City Cemetery in Monroe, LA, where her story began. Rita's life was a remarkable journey of learning, teaching, and loving-a journey that will be fondly remembered and deeply missed

Hooper Huddleston and Horner Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. (931)526-6111 Share condolences and memories at www.hhhfunerals.com.