Garry Lee Blair, Sr.

Garry Lee Blair, Sr., 65, of Jacksonville, FL passed away peacefully Wednesday, July 21, 2010. He was born on March 5, 1945 in Wichita, Kansas to parents Charles T. and Thelma Mae Welch. Mr. Blair was raised by his adoptive parents Robert and Erla Blair. Mr. Blair served his country honorably in the United States Navy and served during the Cuban conflict. He retired from the Duval County School Board after 30 years of service. Mr. Blair was a member of the Moose Lodge #2134 and was the commander and chief of the American Legion Post. He also was the president of the Cathedral Towers Retirement Home. Mr. Blair enjoyed fishing, camping but was best known for helping others. He was an avid volunteer and wanted to be remembered for all of his good deeds. Mr. Blair was always ready to help the needy. He will always be remembered as a loving father and grandfather. Mr. Blair is survived by his loving family who will miss him dearly, son Garry Lee Blair, Jr.; daughters, Kimberly M. Ratliff and Teresa L. Miller; brothers, Donald, Elmer and Bobby Welch; sister, Beverly Welch; grandchildren, Crystal, Tommy, Jr., James, Joshua, Kayla and Kirsten and David Michael; great-grandchildren, Randall, Tommy, III and Joshua, Jr.; and many nieces and nephews. One of Mr. Blair’s last wishes was for his family and friends to look at his dying as a time of personal growth and forgiveness for everyone. A graveside service will be held in his honor at 12:30 pm Tuesday, July 27, 2010 at the Jacksonville National Cemetery with Reverend Joe Allinder officiating. Military honors will be conferred at the cemetery. In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made to Broadus-Raines Funeral Home to help with the funeral expenses. Please sign the family's online guestbook at www.broadusraines.com. Arrangements are under the care of Broadus-Raines Funeral Home, 501 Spring Street, Green Cove Springs, FL 32043 (904) 284-4000.