In Memoriam: Preston J. “PJ” Blanchard, Jr.

A Life of Service, Faith, and Community

It is with deep respect and heartfelt remembrance that we honor the life and legacy of Preston Joseph “PJ” Blanchard, Jr., who passed away on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at the age of 92. A devoted member of Brunswick’s American Legion Post 9 for over 47 consecutive years (nearly 50 years total in the American Legion), PJ’s life reflected the highest ideals of service, family, and citizenship.

Born in Kaplan, Louisiana on April 30, 1933, PJ was a proud Navy veteran who served his country with honor during the early 1950s, stationed at Naval Air Station Glynco in Brunswick, Georgia. He would go on to make Brunswick his lifelong home, marrying Mary Etta Jacobs in 1954 and building a life—and a home—for his family in the Magnolia Park subdivision.

PJ served with the City of Brunswick Fire Department for 34 years, rising to the rank of Captain and later serving as a fire and building inspector. He became a well-known figure throughout Glynn County for his tireless work in fire prevention education, dressing as “Sparky the Dalmatian” to teach children about fire safety, and serving as the longtime Chairman of Fire Prevention Week.

In every endeavor, PJ carried with him a deep commitment to civic life. He was a Fourth-Degree Knight of Columbus, a 58-year member of the Brunswick Exchange Club, and a fixture in St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church. Through his involvement with American Legion Post 9, he supported countless veterans' programs and post activities, always bringing his characteristic energy, humor, and sense of duty.

PJ was a father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and even a great-great-grandfather. He cherished his family deeply and took immense pride in their accomplishments. Whether cooking a Cajun meal, researching family genealogy, playing his accordion, or watching the Georgia Bulldogs or LSU Tigers, PJ lived a full and vibrant life.

His funeral Mass will be held Monday, September 22 at 2:00 p.m. at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, with a reception to follow at the Exchange Club Fairgrounds. A viewing and rosary service will take place Sunday, September 21 from 2:00–4:00 p.m. at Edo Miller & Sons Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church and School—an institution PJ supported for many decades.

As we bid farewell to our dear comrade and friend, we remember PJ not only for his service, but for his warmth, leadership, and unwavering dedication to God and country. He leaves behind a legacy that will long endure in the lives he touched and the community he helped shape.

Fair winds and following seas, PJ. We salute you.