Patsy Shannon Blair

Patsy Shannon Blair

Patsy Shannon Blair, widow of Charles L. Blair, passed away peacefully on November 9th at Cedarfield, her home for the past twenty-five years. She was predeceased by her parents, Evie F. and Dr. Howell F. Shannon; and her three brothers and their spouses, Billy (Julia), Dick (Beverley), and David ("Tommy") Shannon. She is survived by her daughter, Carroll B. Keiger (Lin Bottoms), her son, Charles L. Blair Jr. (Leslie); five grandchildren, Catie Wilton (Jud), Kemper Blair (Emily), Reed Blair (Anna Starnes), Carter Yeisley (Jason), Michael Blair (Ann Wallace); and ten great-grandchildren, Gus, Hadley, Beau, Rowan, Libby, Ellie, Evie, Sydney, Forrest and Walker. "Meme" to her grandchildren, she delighted in their hijinks and loved to serve them ice cream for breakfast. She is also survived by five nieces and five nephews and their families.

Pat grew up on a farm on the north side of Richmond and spent more time outside than in, traipsing the countryside and doing her best to keep up with her brothers. She attended Collegiate School on occasion (her words), but much of her education came from her life experiences on the farm where her grandmother and three aunts joined their already bustling household. A move to the Fan District when gas rationing made it difficult for her father to commute to his dental practice in Richmond brought new experiences and ultimately an introduction to Charlie to whom she was married for sixty-three years until his passing in 2012. They made their home in the Glenburnie neighborhood and provided their children a loving and supportive household including excellent educational opportunities. In retirement, they loved to spend time in Florida and Virginia Beach, fishing, crabbing and enjoying the beautiful beaches. After Charlie's passing, Mathews County became her favorite waterfront destination where she bought a home that has been a special gathering place for her family.

Meme has gone fishing (again, her words) and she will be missed. In keeping with her wishes, her children and grandchildren will gather at a later date to celebrate her life.