James Richard Blair (“Jim”), 79, of Mount Vernon, Ohio, passed away peacefully on July 12, 2026, following a brief battle with cancer.

Born on March 12, 1947, in Monmouth, Illinois, Jim was the son of Benjamin Blair and Elizabeth (Irey) Blair, both of whom preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his sister, Mary.

On June 21, 1969, Jim married the love of his life, Karen (Bailey) Blair, in Clarendon Hills, Illinois. Together they shared 57 years of marriage rooted in faith, service, family, and unconditional love.

Jim attended Western Illinois University, where he earned both his undergraduate degree and a master’s degree in mathematics. Later, following a calling into ministry, he earned a Master of Divinity degree from the University of Dubuque Theological Seminary. Throughout his life, he remained committed to learning, teaching, and serving others.

He spent more than two decades as a mathematics teacher and coach at Alwood Community Schools, where he inspired generations of students through education, mentorship, and encouragement. Following a call to ministry, Jim faithfully served congregations in Vinton, Iowa, and Aplington, Iowa, before retiring from Blessed Hope Church in Vinton. Throughout his ministry, he was known for his compassionate heart, thoughtful wisdom, and unwavering commitment to serving others.

One of the greatest joys of Jim’s life was serving alongside Karen through Nomads, participating in mission and service projects throughout the country. Whether helping to build, repair, encourage, or simply lend a hand, Jim lived out his faith through action and saw every opportunity to serve as a blessing.

Jim was an avid fisherman who found peace on the water, an enthusiastic golfer who appreciated the fellowship of the game, and a talented woodworker who delighted in creating beautiful and useful things with his hands. He also treasured time spent with his grandchildren and rarely missed an opportunity to attend their sporting events, concerts, recitals, and other activities. Nothing brought him greater joy than watching them grow, encouraging them from the sidelines, and celebrating their accomplishments.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Karen Blair; his children, Robert Blair and Taiya Smith, Bryan and Sara Blair, and Tamara and Phil Holzer; and his cherished grandchildren, Corwen, Serian, and Afton Blair; Ethan and Thomas Blair; and Amanda and Atticus Holzer.

Jim will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, pastor, teacher, coach, and friend. He was a devoted family man and a trusted source of wisdom whose faith was evident not only in his words, but also in the way he lived, served, and loved others. His legacy continues through the countless lives he touched and the family he cherished. And while his family will remember him for his faith, service, and guidance, Karen will always hear echoes of Jim’s playful rendition of “Tiptoe Through the Tulips,” a cherished reminder of the laughter, affection, and unwavering love they shared throughout their 57 years together.

The scriptures that guided Jim’s life and ministry included Jeremiah 29:11–13 and Isaiah 6:8, particularly the words:

“Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, ‘Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?’ And I said, ‘Here am I. Send me!’” — Isaiah 6:8

A Celebration of Life will be held in Mount Vernon, Ohio, on Friday, July 17, 2026 – 1:00PM at Lifepoint Church, and a second celebration will be held at Blessed Hope Church in Vinton, Iowa, on Thursday, July 23, 2026.

 In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider a donation to the Foundation for the Knox Community Hospital (www.kch.org/foundation-kch).

The Snyder Funeral Home – Lasater Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements.

Though deeply missed, Jim’s family finds comfort in knowing that the faith he shared, the wisdom he imparted, and the love he gave so freely will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him. His was a life well lived, faithfully served, and lovingly remembered.