MR. Irving M. Blue

LIFFE REFLECTIONS
Irving Marcel Blue, born to Laverne Blue, and Robert Ashby, on February 11, 1970, in
Newark, New Jersey, entered this world with a spirit marked by determination and vigor.
His early years in Newark and Trenton, New Jersey, set the foundation for a life
dedicated to excellence and service. Irving's high school journey began at Trenton High,
continued at Solebury Prep in Hopewell, New Jersey, and culminated back at Trenton
High, where he graduated in June 1989.
From humble beginnings, Irving was a man of great faith. In the fall of 1989, having no
clear plan, he boarded a bus with twelve other students bound for a little known HBCU
in Tuscaloosa, Alabama called Stillman College. His journey would prove to be
transformative as he quickly made his mark. Reflecting on his time there in a May 2023
Heart and Soul magazine interview, he said, "From day one on campus, I took control of
my future." He became Freshman Class President, a founding member of the Pride Phi
Prestige social organization, a member of the basketball team, and a work-study
student in the President's office. His declaration that "Stillman is family – period!"
echoed the lifelong friendships and his meeting of his future wife, Lisa Nicholson, at
Stillman, too.
Mr. Blue's perseverance and grit made him the sole graduate of the original thirteen
completing a Bachelor of Arts degree in History in 1993, and later earning a Master's
Degree in Urban and Regional Planning from Alabama Agricultural & Mechanical
University in Normal, Alabama in 1996. His dedication to Stillman continued, until his
recent health challenges, as President of the National Alumni Association and as a
Board of Trustees member, as well as Chairperson of several committees and
initiatives.
Irving's professional career was a testament to his drive and vision. He worked
tirelessly, traveling frequently between St. Louis, Kansas City, Memphis, Chicago, and
beyond, always focused on improving communities and housing. As the Executive
Director for the revitalization of the Forest Park Southeast neighborhood in St. Louis,
now known as "The Grove," and later as Vice President of FPD Management, Inc. in
Kansas City, Missouri, Irving was instrumental in transforming blighted neighborhoods
and providing safe, affordable housing. His roles demanded leadership, extensive
travel, and relentless dedication, and he embraced them with passion. Whether working
late nights or providing training and mentorship to his teams, Irving was committed to
being an agent for change.
Irving furthered his career with McCormack Baron, where he played a crucial role in
securing funding for the revitalization of Preservation Square. Irving's entrepreneurial
spirit shone as he revamped Blue Realty, LLC and worked as a general contractor,
managing properties and ensuring quality housing. His most recent role with Vatterott
Properties in St. Louis, allowed him to impart his vast knowledge and expertise,
mentoring others and ensuring high standards in property management.
Initiated in the Delta Upsilon chapter in New Jersey, Irving was a proud Life Member of
Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., celebrating his 30th anniversary in March 2024. He was
actively involved in the Nu Chi Chapter in East St. Louis, Illinois, where his contributions
included chairing the inaugural Metro-East 1911 Cup Golf Scramble, participating in the
Mardi Gras and Housing Committees, and mentoring youth through Project Manhood.
He was known for his tenacious analysis for the Budget and chapter Finances as well.
Irving's enthusiasm for nationwide events with Omega Psi Phi was boundless, as was
also demonstrated by his role in organizing the 30th-anniversary celebration at the
International Conclave in July 2024.
Irving Marcel Blue transitioned on May 21, 2024, leaving a legacy of community service
and a zest for life. He was welcomed into eternal rest by his grandmother, Teddi Blue,
his uncle, Irving Childress, Raven Iman Blue (daughter), and Mary Nicholson (mother-
in-law). Albeit short, a lifetime of memories will be cherished by his beloved wife of 28
years, Lisa Nicholson Blue; his daughter, Olivia Iman Blue; his son, London Irving
Nicholson Blue; his mother, Laverne Blue; his brother, Jermoul (Erica) Blue; his sister-
cousin, Taneisa (Elesia) Blue; his father-in-law, Herbert Nicholson; his sister-in-law,
Melba (Jamal) Sullivan; his nephews, Corey (Paige) Giddens and J. Kai Sullivan; a host
of extended family members, many Stillman Alumni, and his brothers of Omega Psi Phi
Fraternity, Inc.
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