Blanche Dale Gafford

Blanche Dale Rains Gafford, 78, of Bryan, Texas, passed away peacefully on August 23, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

Blanche was born in Texarkana, Arkansas, to Bill Rains and LaVerne Rains, and was surrounded throughout her life by the love and guidance of their later spouses, Lois Rains and Jack Stansbery. She graduated from Texas High School in Texarkana, TX, and made Bryan–College Station her home beginning in 1980. In 1969, she married the love of her life, Charles Wesley Gafford. They shared many wonderful years together before his passing in 1995.

Blanche devoted her early years to being a stay-at-home mother to her daughter, Sharli, before beginning a career at Tops Printing where her hard work, steady presence, and warm spirit earned the respect of her colleagues and customers alike. Yet her greatest joy in life was her family, especially her daughter and two grandsons. Known affectionately as “Meemaw,” Blanche devoted herself to Rylan and Bryce Nucker from the moment they were born. She attended nearly every school program, celebrated every achievement, and was their biggest cheerleader—always ready for adventures, sleepovers, and sick days spent with extra love and care.

Blanche will be remembered for her kindness, humor, and generous heart. She brought warmth and encouragement to everyone she met, leaving behind a legacy of love and support that will be felt for years to come.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Charles Gafford; her parents, Bill Rains (wife Lois) and LaVerne Stansbery (husband Jack); and her brothers, Edwin Rains and Eugene Stansbery.

Blanche is survived by her daughter, Sharli Nucker, and husband, Jerry; her adored grandsons, Rylan and Bryce Nucker; sisters-in-law Mary Rains and Eileen Stansbery; and many extended family members and friends who loved her dearly.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, August 29, 2025, at Callaway-Jones Funeral Home, 13001 S. College Ave., Bryan, TX, with a graveside service following. Visitation will take place from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, August 28, 2025, also at Callaway-Jones Funeral Home.

Blanche’s life was a gift to all who knew her, and her love and laughter will live on in the hearts of her family and friends forever.