Gary Lee Blair

Gary Lee Blair of Courtois, Missouri, was born on January 17, 1949 in Quaker, passed away at his home on Tuesday, July 15, 2025. He was a loving husband, devoted father, proud grandfather, and cherished friend to many.

Gary worked for the Forestry and dedicated an impressive 40 years before retiring in 2010. He was not only skilled in his profession but also known for his talent as a fixer of things. He enjoyed the challenges that came with repairing and improving various items. A Vietnam veteran, Gary proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1969 to 1971. While in the service, Gary was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, and the Good Conduct Medal. He held strong values, loved and protected his family, and honored the Lord. Gary was a member of Liberty Baptist Church. Many looked up to him for his guidance and leadership. His personality shone bright, marked by his willingness to help others in the community.

Gary was united in marriage to Gail Anderson January 20, 1990. Together they created a beautiful life filled with love and joy. He found profound happiness in tending to his land, ensuring it was beautifully manicured, and enjoyed riding around the property with Gail, taking in beautiful scenes created by God. His hobbies included hunting (especially turkey hunting), fishing, gigging, and feeding the hummingbirds. He also enjoyed caring for his puppies, Roscoe and Daisy, and looked forward to his hunting trips in Colorado.

Gary is survived by his beloved wife, Gail Blair of 35 years; his two children: Shawn Blair and Misty Blair (Mark Cooper). He was a proud grandpa to Autumn, David, Joshua, Seth, Wrenley, and Mason. He is also survived by his siblings: Shirley Hitt, Patsy Draper, Joann & Stormy Botkin, Doris Keith, Ronald Blair (Jennifer Piper), Jackie & Ramona Blair, and Michael Blair, along with nieces, nephews, and extended family.

He was preceded in death by his father, Fred Blair, his mother, Nellie Mae (Dawes) Blair, his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Bob & Jeanie Anderson, as well as his brothers-in-law: Bruce Hitt, Jimmy Draper, and Rick Keith, and many relatives.

Services for Gary will be held at DeClue Funeral Home in Potosi, Missouri. The first visitation will take place on Thursday, July 17, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, followed by another visitation on Friday, July 18, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM. A funeral service will occur on Friday, July 18, 2025, at 11:00 AM, after which he will be laid to rest at Antioch Cemetery. Pastor Fred Miller will be officiating Gary's service. 

Gary Lee Blair will be remembered for his love, kindness, and the countless ways he touched the lives of those around him. Funeral arrangements were respectfully entrusted to the care and direction of DeClue Funeral Home.