James W. Blanchard, affectionately known as “Jimmy,” passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 17th, 2025, at the age of 90, surrounded by love and the memories that shaped a full and vibrant life.

Born on December 19th, 1934, in Santa Fe, San Pedro de Macorís, Dominican Republic, Jimmy was the youngest child of Loetitia Blanchard Matthews, originally from Saint Lucia, and Adolphus Matthews, of Saint Vincent. His parents met in Cuba before settling in the Dominican Republic, where Jimmy spent his early years.

A naturally gifted athlete, Jimmy discovered a passion for baseball during his youth. Though professional scouts began to take interest in the Dominican Republic just as he departed for the United States, Jimmy’s talent on the field left a lasting impression. While he often reflected on what might have been, he fully embraced what was—a meaningful life rooted in resilience, hard work, and deep family bonds.

After immigrating to New York with the help of his sister and father, Jimmy built a life in Brooklyn. He worked for New York City’s Department of Housing Preservation and Development as a plumber, serving the city with pride and dedication for over 30 years. His hands built and fixed not only pipes and structures—but the very foundation of support for his growing family.

At their cherished home on 200 Park Place, Jimmy and his wife, Philiss, became known for hosting vibrant summer barbecues—celebrations that brought together friends, relatives, and neighbors. Though the music sometimes led to noise complaints, the parties were always full of joy, laughter, and love.

Jimmy and his wife, Philiss, shared 40 years of love together. They also shared a love for travel—especially their annual Caribbean cruises with his brother in-law, nieces and nephews. Jimmy loved evenings at the casino, dancing the night away with Philiss, and competitive games of dominoes surrounded by family. Jimmy instilled in Jervon and Jaime the importance of hard work.

Besides supporting the Mets and the New York Knicks, Jimmy’s favorite pastime was fishing—a passion he joyfully shared with family and close friends. Despite being famously prone to motion sickness, he would still join them on boat trips, determined not to miss the camaraderie and excitement of casting a line out at sea. Whether on the shore or rocking gently with the waves—often with a queasy smile and a steady grip on the rail—those moments became cherished memories, threaded with laughter, patience, and quiet joy.

Jimmy was deeply proud of the values he passed down to his children. His mentorship of his son Jaime was especially influential—shaping him into a disciplined athlete whose performance on the field earned him a college education. More than just athletic skill, Jimmy instilled in Jaime the importance of hard work and perseverance—values that laid the foundation for Jaime’s path into law enforcement.

Jimmy was the youngest of several siblings: Victor Blanchard, Paulina Blanchard, Julia Garcia Blanchard, Maria Antonia Blanchard Rivera, and Beatrice Tyson Blanchard. He is survived by his beloved sister, Luisa Antonia Blanchard Thomas.

Jimmy is survived by his children Leticia, Lisa, Denyse, Jaime, and Jervon. He was predeceased by his beloved son, Michael Blanchard.

He was a proud grandfather to Levaughn, Rashawn, LeAnna, Taylor, Lauryn, Felicia, Alexis, Jaylynn, and Jayce, and a great-grandfather to Ason, Mayson, and Kennedy Margaret.

Jimmy will be remembered for his sharp wit, generous spirit, and the love he gave unconditionally to all who knew him. He leaves behind his wife, Philiss; his children; son-in-law Ed and daughter-in-law Danielle; his grandchildren; great-grandchildren; sister Estela; many beloved nieces and nephews; great-nieces and great-nephews; sister-in-law Ann Marie; brothers-in-law Norman, Eldridge and family; many extended family members; and lifelong friends.