Charles Pierre DuRest Blanchet

Charles Pierre DuRest Blanchet May 31, 1947 - September 14, 2023 Charles Pierre Blanchet, known as Pierre, passed away peacefully at his home in Gainesville, Florida, on September 14, 2023, at the age of 76 surrounded by his loving family. He was born on May 31, 1947, in New York, New York, to his proud parents, Auguste Pierre Blanchet and Eleanor DeWitt Blanchet. Pierre is survived by his wife, Lily Chiappini Blanchet, and his children, Natalie Nicole Mullally (nee Blanchet, Husband, Andrew), Christian Pierre Blanchet (wife, Sara), and Chandler Laurent Blanchet (wife, Michaela) and lovingly remembered by his first wife Buffa Blanchet. He was a proud and doting grandfather to Sophia, Stella, Vivienne, Cameron, and was eagerly awaiting the arrival of a fifth grandchild. Pierre's sister, Suzanne Williams, and his nephews, Derek and Edward, and nieces, Susan, Kimberly, and Kristen, held a special place in his heart. Pierre was preceded in death by sister Jackie. Pierre moved to New Smyrna Beach, Florida, at the age of five, where he grew up and embraced his love for the ocean, becoming an avid surfer. He was one of the original members and founders of the New Smyrna Surf Club and was even crowned Homecoming King during his high school years. After graduating from the University of Florida, where he studied Advertising and Photography and was a member of the ATO fraternity, Pierre embarked on a seven-month solo backpacking adventure through Europe which ignited a lifelong passion for travel and culture. He particularly had a fondness for the south of France, returning many times over his life. His adventurous spirit and love for photography paved the way for a remarkable career that spanned nearly 40 years. He owned his own photography studio, Pierre Blanchet & Associates, where he specialized in commercial photography, still life, and portraiture. His greatest accomplishment was a vast collection of artist portraits that were on display at the Center of Performing Arts in Gainesville, Florida, for over two decades. Pierre found solace in the embrace of nature, loved rock and roll, especially the Rolling Stones, and found joy in playing the flute. Pierre's spirituality was profound, believing in the interconnectedness of all beings through universal energy and knowing that God is in all of us. Pierre's humor and quick wit were a testament to his vibrant spirit, and he had a unique ability to find joy even in life's simplest moments. Pierre's friends were not just friends but lifelong companions who shared his humor, adventures, and memories, creating a tapestry of colorful stories that spanned the decades. Above all else, Pierre's greatest source of happiness was his family. He cherished every moment spent with his children and family, and his heart was fullest when they were together. He often shared his favorite saying, "feel the joy," a testament to his zest for life. A celebration of Pierre's remarkable life will be held this fall. Details will be announced in due course. In the meantime, let us remember the joy, creativity, and love that Pierre brought into the lives of all who knew him.