Tommy was born May 17, 1945 (celebrated June 16th) to the parentage of Mack and Sally Blair in Aliceville, Alabama. He grew up and received his early childhood education through the age of 16. He then left Alabama to join the United States Army where he completed his high school education.
During his military tenure, Tom completed various courses of study, receiving numerous certificates, medals, and other awards. He earned a certificates from the United States Armed Forces Infantry School. He was most proud of receiving his flying certificate, and becoming a paratrooper. He was also a member of Fort Benning Flying Club. Tommy received an Honorable Discharge on the 31st day of May 1968.
Shortly after leaving the Army, Tom moved to Dallas, Texas, where he met and married Lois Roberts that same year. To this union, two children were born: Toni Lynn and Tommy Lee Blair, Jr.
Tommy continued his education while working as an Electrical Engineer for the United States Defense Projects for Texas Instruments. During his 25 year career at Texas Instruments he received his Bachelor of Science and Physics Degree from Bishop College on the 11th day of May 1980.
Tommy’s career continued for the United States Air Force as an Electronic Design Engineer until he retired in 2012. During this period he received many awards – too many to mention here. He was most proud to receive these awards: Scientist Engineer of the Year; Joint Advanced Simulation Distributed – Electronic Warfare Tests; Modeling and Simulation Award for Acquisition as a Team; Scientific/Engineering Air Force Achievement Award; and, retirement award for Dedication, Professionalism, and Honor.
On Thursday, April 16, 2020, Tommy Lee Blair, Sr. entered into his eternal home of Glory. He was welcomed by his parents, Mack Blair and Sally Blair; brother, Fred Blair; sisters, Virgie Mitchell, Sarah Buckner and Mary Blair.
Tom leaves to cherish his memory: his wife of 51 years, Lois; daughter, Toni Lynn (Texas); son, Tommy, Jr. (Christine) (Texas); three grandsons, Thomas Hai, Arthur Long, and Christopher Lee; sister, Katherine Hinton (Alabama), sister, Mattie Miles (Fred) (Maryland); brother, Eddie Blair (Shirley) (Ohio); sister, Barbara Whetstone (Alabama); sister, Francine Willis (Alabama) and brother, Harold Blair (Alabama), many other relatives and friends, and long-time Army buddy, Harry Campbell.
Tommy will always be remembered by his church, New Friendship Missionary Baptist Church. He served in many capacities to help others and to glorify GOD.
