Former Jets, Giants Kicker Cary Blanchard Dead At 47
OKLAHOMA CITY (CBSNewYork/AP) — Cary Blanchard, whose eight-year NFL career as a kicker included stints with the Jets, Colts and Giants, died Tuesday at age 47.
Mindi Blanchard confirmed her ex-husband's death. She said Cary passed away unexpectedly of what she believes was a massive heart attack, but added that an autopsy has not been performed.
Blanchard lived near Edmond, Oklahoma, a suburb of Oklahoma City, but Mindi said he died in Mabank, Texas, three days after his mother's funeral there.
As a Colt, Blanchard was an Associated Press All-Pro in 1996 and a Pro Bowl selection in 1997. His nine-year NFL career also included time with the New Orleans Saints, Washington Redskinsand Arizona Cardinals.
He was a Jet for the 1992 and '93 seasons. He spent 10 games with the Giants in 1999.
A three-time All-Big Eight selection (1988-90), Blanchard finished his Oklahoma State career with 331 points.
Blanchard is survived by his son, Blake, as well as Blake's wife, Tia; his daughter, Bayli; and his son, Braeden.
Mindi said the funeral will take place Friday at Church of the Servant in Oklahoma City.
"Cary was a family man who loved his children and his family more than anything," Mindi said.
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