Michael Alan Blair

Michael was born on October 29, 1978, in Springfield, the son of Mark and Denise Dempsey and the late Greg Blair. He was preceded in death by his father, Greg Blair, as well as his grandparents: Fred and Betty Mathis, Orville Bartels, Frank and Bertha Blair, and Bob and Dolores Dempsey.

Michael graduated from Jacksonville High School with the Class of 2000. He worked proudly at SPARC and at McDonald’s on Capital City, where he earned his food service certification and took great pride in his work and independence.

Michael lived life with enthusiasm and heart. He was a dedicated Special Olympics athlete, excelling in butterfly swimming, basketball, and bowling. As a member of Boy Scout Troop 312, he achieved the rank of Eagle Scout—an accomplishment he was incredibly proud of. His Eagle Scout projects benefited the American Legion and Chandlerville Cemetery, both in Chandlerville, Illinois. He was also a member of Dana’s Dance Revolution and Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church, where he attended PSR classes.

A devoted fan of the St. Louis Cardinals, Michael also loved country music—especially Elvie Shane—and enjoyed line dancing. He never met a stranger. Michael had a remarkable gift for remembering names and making people feel known, welcomed, and important. His joyful spirit and genuine kindness left a lasting mark on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

More than anything, Michael loved his family. He shared a special and meaningful bond with his niece and nephew, Luke and Anna Williams, who brought him immense pride and joy. He cherished attending their games, celebrating their accomplishments, and simply being part of their lives.

He is survived by his parents, Denise and Mark Dempsey of Springfield; his sisters, Jennifer (Chris) Williams of Virginia, Illinois, Maranda (Rich) Hymes of Springfield, and Lesley (Joe) Dillard of Chapin; his nieces and nephews, Luke and Anna Williams; and Dawson and Britni Dillard; along with several aunts, uncles, cousins and extended family members.

Arrangements are under the care of Bisch Funeral Home West, 2931 S. Koke Mill Rd., Springfield, where a prayer service will be held at 3:30 p.m. on Friday, May 1, 2026, with visitation to follow until 7:00 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church, 1725 S. Walnut St., Springfield, with Fr. Jeff Grant and Fr. Ryan Kehoe officiating. Burial will follow at Chandlerville Cemetery in Chandlerville, Illinois

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to support Michael’s Eagle Scout projects at the American Legion, 120 N. Main St., Chandlerville, IL 62627, or to the Chandlerville Cemetery.

Please visit the online “Life Remembered Story” at www.bischfuneralhomewest.com to share tributes and condolences with the family.

Bisch Funeral Home West is serving the family. 217-544-5424