BLAIRSVILLE – Charles Winfred Blair, Sr., 87, died on Thursday, March 5, 2015, at his residence in Blairsville.
Born in Kinston, Ala. on February 19, 1928, he was the son of the late Dewey Herbert and Ozella Thorn Blair. He was raised on the family farm in Coffee Springs, Ala., and was a graduate of Coffee Springs High School. On September 1, 1950, he married Betty Jean Abercrombie at Woodlawn Presbyterian Church in Birmingham, Ala.
He led a successful business career, beginning with the American Bridge Company in Birmingham, followed by the Blue Bird Bus Company in Fort Valley, Ga., where he retired as director of corporate costs and budgets in 1993, after which he and his wife moved to Blairsville.
He was an ordained elder in the Presbyterian Church, serving and worshipping in congregations in Alabama and Georgia throughout his adult life and was most recently a founding member of Faith Presbyterian Church in Blue Ridge, Ga.
He was especially devoted to his family. He was a constant supporter in all his family’s activities and endeavors, coaching numerous recreational sports teams and never missing a game or event. He ensured that family remained a priority his entire life, continuing that tradition of love and support with his grandchildren as well.
He was honest and dependable and valued a strong work ethic, and will be remembered particularly for his unconditional love, calm demeanor and kind spirit. These qualities were cherished by those who predeceased him, who include his parents and a sister, Nellie Davis, and remain present with those who survive him, including his wife, Betty, and two sons, Charles (Johnnie), Commerce, and Jeff (Charlotte), Jefferson; four grandchildren, Robert Blair (Laura), Camille Blair, Win Blair, and Amelia Blair; one sister, Linda Blair Smith, Geneva, Ala.; and several nieces.
A celebration of his life will take place on Saturday, March 7, at 2 p.m., in the sanctuary of the Commerce Presbyterian Church with the Rev. Dr. James O. Speed, Jr., Rev. Craig Topple, and Rev. Carol Wade officiating. The family will receive guests following the service in the fellowship hall.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to a charity of one’s choice.
Little-Ward Funeral Home, Commerce, is in charge of arrangements.