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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.

(TM and © Copyright 2016 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2016 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

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