Gloria Genell Blair

Gloria Genell Turner-Blair, 77, has moved from her earthly home to her heavenly home on Friday, July 18, 2025, at Charlton Methodist Medical Center.Gloria Genell Blair was born November 28, 1947, to the parentage of Thomas Jefferson, Sr. and Dollie Gibson-Turner in Fairfield, Texas of Freestone County. She was a graduate of Dogan High School class of 1966.

She confessed her belief in Christ at an early age. She united with the Shiloh Baptist Church of Fairfield, Texas under the leadership of the late Rev. Mayes. She later united with the True Vine of Holiness Missionary Baptist Church of Dallas, Texas under the leadership of Dr. Wendell Blair, Sr.

She was the ninth child of nine children and were preceded in death by her three brothers: Thomas Jefferson Turner, Jr., Leon Turner, and Marvin Turner. Also, by two of her sisters; Effie Turner-Davis, and Pinkie Turner-Green. She also was preceded in death by her grandson, Wendon LeKeith Blair.

She married Mr. Johnny Garrett and to this union a son was born, Devin Garrett. She was currently married to Dr. Wendell Blair, Sr..In 1967 she began her career at Texas Instruments as a Marketing Coordinator. And she worked there for 31 years and retired in August 1998. She was a graduate of D. Edwin Johnson Bible Institute where she received her degree in theology.

She served faithfully in her church as Choir President, Director of Youth Department, Director of Nursery Church, Sunday School attendant, and worked with the Women Ministry. She served as President of the Minister’s Wives of the Oak Cliff Baptist Minister’s union of Dallas, Texas. She served as Treasurer and President of Minister’s Wives of True Fellowship Missionary District Association where her husband, Dr. Wendell Blair, Sr. was moderator.

She leaves to cherish her memories her husband of 32 years – Dr. Wendell Blair. Sr., her sons – Devin Garrett (Diedre) and Wendell Blair, Jr. (Leketia) a daughter – RaLonda Banks (Jonathan). A niece/daughter – Ann Davis (Adolphus). Three sisters – Lela Haynes (Willie), Margie Mims and Ezra Moody. Nine grandchildren – Shelly Garrett, Zenai Garrett, Devin Garrett II, Shaladria Garrett, Rory Blair, Rashawn Blacklock, Wendric Blair (Crystal), LeBarbara Blair, Wenston Blair. Five great-grandchildren. A host of other nieces, nephews and relatives.