James Blair

SOUTH WHITLEY - James Oliver Blair, 69, of South Whitley, passed away Sunday, Nov. 23, 2025.

Born Sept. 23, 1956, in Columbia City, he was the son of the late Robert and Evelyn (Leitzke) Blair.

He attended Columbia City Joint High School. Jim started Blair Construction in the early 1980s and established Jim Blair Seamless Guttering in 1989. He was generous with his time and his construction skills, always willing to build, fix, or lend a hand wherever it was needed. Jim never wanted praise or recognition -helping others was simply who he was.

Jim never knew a stranger. He had a rare gift for making everyone feel welcome, and his friends truly became his family. He was an incredible storyteller, able to capture a room with the simplest memory or turn an ordinary moment into a story you would never forget. His stories - told with humor, heart, and that unmistakable Jim charm - will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

He was a member of Sons of AMVETS 2919 and AMVETS Riders 2919, and he enjoyed participating in a golf league every Wednesday night. Jim was into anything sports-related. He loved football, baseball, all types of racing, and golf. He loved riding his Harley motorcycles, shooting pool, and spending time with his friends.

His greatest joy in life was spending time with his grandchildren. Whether he was cheering them on at their games, enjoying their plays or choir performances, teasing them with his quick wit, or sharing one of his famous stories, "Papa" lit up when they were near. He made each of them feel special, seen, and deeply loved.

Jim is survived by his children, Dusty (Tammy) Blair and Terra (James) McCrory; grandchildren, Kayleb, Connor, Addyson, Jaxon, Lilly, Owen, Declan, Noah, and Charlotte "Charlie"; sisters, Reggie (Mark) Renz and Carol (Jay) Crow; and several nieces and nephews.

Along with his parents, Jim was preceded in death by nephews Isaac Crow and Chris Mass and his father's long-term companion, Harriet Castle.

Visitation will be 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 5, at DeMoney Grimes Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Drive, Columbia City.

Memorial Service will be 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, with visitation one hour prior also at the funeral home. Inurnment will follow at South Whitley Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be given in memory of Jim to AMVETS Riders 2919. Visit www.DeMoneyGrimes.com to send Jim's family online condolences or sign the online guest book.