What could cause a really strong fuel odor near the fuel filter with no visual?

What is your question?

I have been told by everyone I know or meet when driving that my Blazer smells strong of straight gas. Not exhaust. When I turn it off and it sits for a minute, it will eventually start making a sound from that same area as if it is letting pressure out. I took it to my mechanic and it turns out that he is the only person that can't smell gas at all. I did buy the blazer from him though, so I don't know what to think. I really don't want to die in a fire mess, and I am seriously sick of having to fill my tank every three days of my driving around. What can I do with this? It's hard times, cash is low, but with my job being out of town, I need my car.