Dock Austin Blanchard

“I am just your ole humble country barefoot attorney” It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Dock Austin Blanchard, age 76, who left us peacefully on July 9, 2025. Born on May 20, 1949, in Gainesville, Florida, he was the beloved son of Ethel Louse Martin and Jay Lane Blanchard. Dock leaves behind cherished memories with his surviving brother, Joe Lane Blanchard, and his mother-in-law, Sandra Harton. He is lovingly remembered by his children, Chanel Blanchard Culley and Ashley Danielle Bowman, and his adored grandchildren, Clara Culley and Bray Bowman. Dock was a proud graduate of Boone High School, Class of 1966. He went on to earn his Bachelor of Arts degree from Harvard College in 1971, followed by his Juris Doctorate from the University of Florida in 1973. He dedicated his life to his passion for law, serving as an esteemed attorney since 1974. Dock was one of only five lawyers in the state of Florida to be Board Certified by the Florida Bar in both Civil and Appellate Law and earned recognition as one of the Top-Rated Attorneys in the Nation. Beyond his professional achievements, Dock found joy in his hobbies, including boating, playing handball, and enjoying Sunday brunch with family and friends. He was involved in community organizations such as The Royal Dames and the Elks Lodge #286, where he formed lasting friendships and made significant contributions. Dock’s legacy will forever be remembered through the love of his family and the many lives he touched throughout his journey. His kind spirit, dedication to justice, and love for life will be deeply missed but never forgotten. A Celebration of Life Parade honoring Dock will be held on Saturday, August 2, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM. The gathering will begin at 12:00 PM on Bank Street, with a procession starting at 2:00 PM that will travel through the Downtown Square and conclude at the Ivy House by approximately 2:30 PM. The celebration will continue at the Ivy House until 4:00 PM. This event is open to all who would like to attend and honor Dock’s memory. Friends and loved ones are encouraged to come, share in the celebration, and remember his life with joy and community. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdanZYQ8-MrPF3heoTewA6YopuLi--1zxXaUPFBdpwlS7DPNA/viewform?pli=1

Dock Austin Blanchard

May 20, 1949 - July 9, 2025