Betty Jane Blair

She was a caring mother, a nurturing grandmother, and a devoted partner who will be remembered for her quick humor, her warm heart, and her fighting spirit.

Betty was born on January 25, 1945 in Memphis, Tennessee to Ruth Birks and Arthur Birks, and was raised alongside her younger sister, Jean. After graduating from Cranston High School East, the University of Rhode Island, and Florida State University, she moved on to become a dedicated teacher to countless young minds, serving primarily at Chaire’s Elementary School in the first, second, and third grades.

In 1967 she married Kingsley Ross, with whom she had two daughters; in 1988, she married Bill Blair, whose son she adopted as her own; and in 1996, she formed a deep partnership with Jessie Schrimsher, who would go on to love, cherish, and support her for the rest of her years.

Betty is survived by her three children, Barbara Ross, Kim Ross, and Paul Blair; her two granddaughters, Julia and Phoebe Frichter; her sister, Jean Gerold; and her partner of 30 years, Jessie Schrimsher. She is also survived by countless cherished friends who loved her, and whom she loved, quite dearly.

A woman of abiding faith, Betty was a devoted member of Saint Paul’s United Methodist Church for nearly 40 years. She was also a member of the Singles Club, where she met her partner, Jessie, and forged many lifelong friendships. Additionally, Betty served in many volunteering capacities, primarily dedicating her time and energy to assisting the elderly through Meals on Wheels. She was an avid reader, kept a beautiful home, and enjoyed raising her children and caring for her grandchildren.

A memorial service will take place on Friday, March 13 at Saint Paul’s United Methodist Church, 1700 N Meridian Rd, Tallahassee in Betty’s honor. The family kindly requests attendees to mask in order to protect loved ones’ health. A service will be held at 1:00 PM in the Sanctuary, followed by a reception at 2:00 PM in Sanders Hall; and for those who wish to spend a little extra time celebrating her life in the way she liked best, family and friends are welcome to come to the Applebee’s on Lagniappe Way for a happy hour to rejoice in memories and stories of our beloved Betty.

A life so beautifully lived deserves to be beautifully remembered; in lieu of cut flowers, the family welcomes donations to Rethink Energy Florida, a nonprofit founded by Betty’s daughter which she wished to support following her passing. rethinkenergyflorida.org/donate

Betty’s kindness and grace touched us all, and she will be profoundly missed.