Ray C. Blair

Ray C. Blair, our beloved father, entered eternal rest on Friday, January 30, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, faith, service, and quiet strength. He lived a life rooted in purpose and guided by compassion as a devoted husband, a loving and ever-present father, a caring son, a kind brother, an adoring uncle, a loyal friend, and a respected educator whose influence reached far beyond the walls of any classroom.

In 1971, Ray married the love of his life, Jean Marie, his wife, partner, and best friend. For 55 beautiful years, they shared a marriage grounded in devotion, mutual respect, and unwavering love. From their union came two children, Gretchian Renee and Sean Ramon, who were the pride and joy of his life. Ray's heart expanded even more with the arrival of his cherished granddaughters, Renia Jene', Rihanna Marie, and Searayah Renee. He adored them deeply and took great joy in being present, and supportive. Above all else, Ray treasured his family and found his greatest fulfillment in caring for them.

Ray was born on June 20, 1947, in Camden, Arkansas, to the late Robert and Odessa Blair. From an early age, he accepted Christ and lived a life firmly anchored in faith, service, and compassion. These values shaped every role he fulfilled and every life he touched. A proud graduate of the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, Ray earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Education and committed his life to the advancement of children and communities through learning.

For 38 years, Ray served faithfully in the field of education, not only as an educator but as a mentor, advocate, and role model. He believed deeply in the power of education to transform lives and worked tirelessly to build strong academic foundations rooted in scholarship and merit. His dedication to excellence, leadership, and lifelong brotherhood was further reflected in his membership in Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., where he embodied the organization's principles of manhood, scholarship, perseverance, and uplift.

Ray was known for his quick wit, genuine humor, and remarkable ability to make others feel comfortable and valued. He could bring laughter into any room and peace into any situation. A trusted and loyal friend for more than 50 years to many, Ray formed bonds that endured through time. He was always willing to lend a helping hand, offer wise counsel, or provide encouragement, living each day with generosity, kindness, and grace.

Ray leaves to cherish his memory his beloved wife of 55 years, Jean Marie; his daughter, Gretchian Renee; his son, Sean Ramon; and his treasured granddaughters, Renia Jene', Rihanna Marie, and Searayah Renee. He is also survived by his siblings, Horace Alexander of Kansas City, Missouri; Reatha Weaver of Camden, Arkansas; and Ophelia Johnson of Long Island, New York; along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.

Ray C. Blair's legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched, the lessons he taught, and the love he poured so freely into his family and community. Though his absence leaves a profound void, his spirit remains present in cherished memories, shared laughter, and the enduring impact of a life well lived.

Ray was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Odessa Blair; his brothers, Raymond Blair and Ira Joe; and his sister, Linda Alexander.

A Visitation will take place on Friday, February 13, 2026 at Krause Funeral Home, 9000 West Capitol Drive, Milwaukee, Wisconsin from 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM with a Service to begin at 11:00 AM.

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