Dr. James Clifford Blair, Jr., 80, distinguished educator, loving father and generous friend to all, died June 28, 2004 in Ogden following complications from a stroke. James was born April 24, 1924 in Ogden, Utah, son of James Clifford Blair and Charlotte Skeen. He married Reva Jeanette Brown in the Salt Lake LDS Temple on June 25, 1948. They were the parents of six children. He was raised in Marriott, Utah and graduated from Weber High School where he starred in football, track and wrestling. He participated in student government and was also very successful on the debate team. In 1942 he attended Weber State and was elected Student Body President. He was unable to complete his role as President when he enlisted in the Naval Air Force and served until 1946 as Lieutenant. He returned to college and graduated from the University of Utah in 1949. James worked part time in the Ogden Railroad for over 25 years. He worked in the Ogden City School District as a teacher and became a Principal in 1953. In 1968 he received his Doctorate of Education from the University of Utah and was appointed Assistant Superintendent of Ogden city Schools in charge of curriculum. He moved to Logan, Utah in 1970 where he was appointed Superintendent of Logan City Schools. He retired as Superintendent in 1988 and in 1989 was honored as one of the top 100 superintendents in North America. After retirement he helped develop Mulligan's Golf Course in Slatterville, Utah. James was a member of the Rotary Club, served the Crippled Children's Association, and Phi Delta Kappa and worked for United Fund. Over the years, James served the LDS Church as a scout leader, Sunday school teacher and trainer and Mutual President for the Ward and Stake. He had a love of animals and nature which he shared with his family. He built four beautiful homes and spent many hours doing fine wood working and finishing. James had a love of cars. He collected Ford mustangs and Volkswagen beetles. He enjoyed his lengthy career in education and felt that he made a difference in the lives of students. Surviving are five children, Jana Blair, Judith Blair Peterson, Jayne Blair, James C. Blair III, Jacqueline Blair Johnson; eight grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, Reva Jeanette Brown and a son, Jon David Blair. Funeral services held on Friday, July 2, 2004 at the Allen-Hall Mortuary Chapel, 34 East Center Street, Logan, Utah. Interment Ogden City Cemetery.
Published in the Salt Lake Tribune from 6/30/2004 - 7/1/2004.