Obituary of Velma Olive Blanchard

Blanchard, Velma O. (Nee Pryce)

Passed away peacefully at Hilltop Manor, surrounded by the love of her family on Tuesday, September 26, 2023, in her 99th year. She is predeceased by her loving husband Spencer, her parents Frederick and Myrtle (nee Wright) Pryce and her siblings Raymond Pryce and Lorna Newsome.

Velma graduated from Brockville Collegiate, Ottawa Normal School (later referred to as Teachers College), and Queens University.  She will be fondly remembered by numerous former students in Smiths Falls and area schools, as a caring and inspirational teacher and teacher-librarian. She was a lifelong member of the former Lombardy United Church and the Lombardy Women’s Institute.  Velma and Spencer were actively involved in the daily life and special events in their farming community.  For many years they volunteered in the organization of the Lombardy Fair. 

Velma will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered as a dear, caring, and generous aunt to Dianne Lee (Bob), Sherry Seed (Danny), and Johial Newsome (Ann Marie); and loving great-aunt of Rob Lee (Jennifer), Mark Seed (Cathy Jones), and Marney Schacker (Matthew); and special great-great aunt of Spencer, Miller, Parker and Arden Lee, and Benjamin, Jayson and Owen Schacker. 

Velma’s family wish to express sincere appreciation to the staff of Lombard Manor Retirement Home for the care she received while she was a resident there, prior to her move to Hilltop Manor. Also, their deepest gratitude to all staff at Hilltop Manor Merrickville for their kindness and exceptional care provided during the past three years.

Friends may pay their respects at Blair & Son Funeral Home, Smiths Falls on Thursday, October 5, 2023, from 11 a.m. until the time of the service to celebrate her wonderful life in the Chapel at 1 o’clock.  A reception will follow, and then the interment will take place at Lombard Union Cemetery.

If desired, memorial contributions may be made to Lombard Union Cemetery or the Lanark County Alzheimer Society.