Walter Bernard Blair II

Walter Bernard Blair II, 78, of Roanoke, VA, passed away peacefully at home on December 24, 2018.

 

Born in Staten Island, NY, he was the son of the late Walter Bernard Blair and Vera Smallacombe Blair.

 

Walt graduated from Xavier High School in Manhattan, NY, Fairfield University, and New York Medical School. He served as a Major in the US Air Force and was stationed in Grand Forks, ND during the Vietnam War.

 

Walt lived in Roanoke for the last 47 years with his loving wife of 52 years,  Linda. They enjoyed summers on Hilton Head Island and winters at a mountain retreat at Wintergreen.  Walt worked the bulk of his career with the Roanoke Psychiatric Center and later opened a private practice.  He helped thousands with mental health issues and was a highly respected psychiatrist.    He was a man of few words and preferred to listen to others and quietly guide them.  Walt was an avid woodworker and photographer and was fascinated by technology in general.   He was a true intellectual with a passion for learning and was constantly taking classes and researching the things that interested him.

 

He is survived by his wife Linda, son Walter Blair III  (Pamela), daughter Jennifer Alcorn (Bryan), and daughter Kimberly (Mark).  Walt was “Pops” to his 4 grandchildren, Davis and Kinsley Alcorn and Quentin and Elliott Vosskamp. 

 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Roanoke Valley SPCA, his beloved dogs would appreciate it.