Robert E. Blair

5/14/1934 – 2/8/2021

Robert Eugene Blair – Senior Chief Petty Officer US Navy retired – died peacefully on February 8, 2021. Serving 28 years, a veteran of the Korean and Vietnam conflicts, he also received many commendations including The Air Medal for heroic and meritorious achievements while flying his many missions.

Robert (Gene) was born on May 14, 1934, in Sandy Hook, Kentucky, to Aubrey and Hazel Blair. In 1952, he enlisted in the US Navy and was assigned to Hutchison Naval Air Station in Hutchison, Kansas. He flew the world many times over throughout his Navy career. After retiring in 1977, Gene went to work at FedEx. He was manager of the engine shop: overseeing maintenance of the many aircraft in their fleet, until his full retirement in 1996. After retirement, he spent his remaining time with his wife, Patsy Scholle Blair, traveling the United States, spending time at his grandchildren’s many events, and following NASCAR racing with friends in their timeshare in Daytona Beach, Florida. He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Patsy; his son, Ronald Blair, and wife, Nancy Hudson Blair, of Lexington TN; his son, Brian Blair, and wife, Penny Castleman Blair, of Dyersburg, TN; four grandchildren, Reece Blair (Casey), Ryan Blair (Shannon), Cari-Beth McDonald (Brooks), and Mari-Kate Estes (Brandon); eight great-grandchildren: Kolby Pratt, Brody McDonald, Walker Blair, Bailey Blair, Blair McDonald, Marley Blair, Hayes Estes, and Mary Clayton Estes; siblings, Kay Blair Holbrook, Dale Blair, and Mickey Blair. He is preceded in death by his parents, his brothers Roger Blair, Morris Wendall Blair, Donnie Blair, and sister Patricia Ann Blair.

There will be a private family service on Tuesday, February 16th, with interment to follow at Tennessee State Veterans Cemetery at Parkers Crossroads. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials are directed to Dyer County Community Cancer Fund, Henderson County Tennessee Carl Perkins Child Abuse Center, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, or the charity of your choice.