Bonnie Lynn Blanchard

Bonnie Lynn (Conway) Blanchard

Born: 16 November 1954

Passed: 19 June 2026

Age: 71

Bonnie Lynn Blanchard was born in San Francisco, California, and spent her childhood moving across the world—from Japan to Florida and many places in between. Those early years shaped the adventurous spirit that defined her entire life. She later lived in North Carolina, New York City, and throughout Florida, but it was in Gainesville where she met the love of her life, Clarence “Wayne” Blanchard. Together they built a marriage rooted in devotion, wonder, and a shared desire to see the world. Their journey eventually led them to settle in Melbourne, Florida, the place they called home.

Bonnie had an extraordinary sense of adventure. She loved traveling with her husband and children, especially anywhere near the ocean. Whether she was island hopping, cruising, or simply standing on a shoreline, she found joy and peace in the rhythm of the water. She lived with a fearless, free-spirited energy—never intimidated by uncertainty, always ready for the next horizon. Bonnie and Wayne were inseparable partners in exploration, united by a love of discovery and the simple thrill of being together, second only to their faith in Christ.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Clarence Wayne Blanchard (19 Feb 26), and her parents, Rev. Thomas and Virginia Conway.

Bonnie is survived by her siblings: Rev. Thomas “Tommy” Conway, Rev. Donald Conway, Terresa “Buddy” Conway, and Venetia Conway; her children: Dana Messer (Jennifer Casella), Brent Messer (Nichole Messer), Eric Blanchard (Jen Smith), and Heather Blanchard (Mario Tapia); and her twelve grandchildren: Samantha, Olivia, Isabella, and Daniel Messer; Jade, Cullin, Logan Messer, and Evelyn McKinney-Nitchman; Thomas, Emmanuelle, Nathanial Blanchard; and Victoria Grace Tapia.

A celebration of Bonnie’s life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers; cards and condolences may be sent to: Dana Messer, 1220 Tillery Drive Aberdeen, NC 28315.