James A. "Sonny" Blanchard, 66, of Villa Ridge died suddenly Monday, Nov. 26, 2001, at his home, of an apparent heart attack.

He was born Nov. 27, 1934, at Senath, MO., son of Troy and Evelyn Fern Bridges Blanchard. He married Rosemarie Endicott.

James was a retired carpenter and was employed by W. T. Harvick Construction 20 years. He was a member of the Carpenters Union.

He served four years in the U.S. Air Force.

Survivors include his wife; two daughters, Debra Daniels of Olmsted, IL., Diane Hendricks of Cape Girardeau, MO.; three brothers, Bobbie Blanchard of Olmsted, Garold Blanchard of Hillerman, IL., Carl Blanchard of Joppa, IL.; a sister, Cindy Malley of Mounds, IL.; three grandchildren; and a great-grandchild.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister.

Friends may call at Jones Funeral Home in Villa Ridge from 5-8 p.m. today.

Funeral will be at 10:30 a.m. Thursday at the funeral home, with the Rev. Stephen Wolfe officiating. Burial will be in National Cemetery at Mound City, IL.