Blanche Griffin Kercheval, widow of Ralph Godfrey Kercheval, died in Lexington on July 3, 2012. She was formerly from Paris, Kentucky, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William Kirkwood Griffin.

Blanche attended the University of Kentucky where she met, fell in love with, and married football star Ralph Kercheval in 1936, beginning a magical journey of love and devotion to her husband and family.

After sharing Ralph's seven years of pro football in Brooklyn, Blanche and Ralph had five exciting years at Fort Robinson, Nebraska, during World War II. Next came ten wonderful years with Ralph as manager of Alfred Vanderbilt's Sagamore Farm in Glyndon, Maryland and she active in many civic organizations.

After the family moved back to Kentucky in 1958, Ralph continued to have accomplishments on the race track. Blanche kept things together on the homefront, with her two oldest sons in the service and her youngest in grade school. She made many trips to New York and Florida to be with her soulmate, Ralph, while he was continuing to train and spend many long and lonely months with the horses. A dream was finally realized when Ralph was able to come home for good. She then became a partner with her husband and son, Hal in the operation of Gallaher Farm, breeding and racing many Thoroughbreds in their name.

Throughout her life Blanche was like a mother, an aunt, and an honorary godmother to so many who have loved her over the years.

Blanche was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 74 years.

She is survived by her three sons: Ralph Jr. (Joanne), Hal, and Ronald (Monica). She also leaves behind her loyal, devoted and cherished caregiver and friend, Tara Daugherty.

Mrs. Kercheval was a member of Central Christian Church, Lexington. She was also a member of Delta Delta Delta Sorority, former member of Idle Hour Country Club, Keeneland Club, and the Thoroughbred Club of America.

Funeral services will be 1:00 PM Friday at Milward - Broadway with burial to follow in the Lexington Cemetery.
Interment Location Section:D, Lot:13,Part:N2/3-W
No visitation is planned.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions to the Cardinal Hill Hospital, Chrysalis House of Lexington, or the charity of one's choice.

Published in Lexington Herald-Leader on July 5, 2012