Obituary of Winford Royce Blair

Winford Royce Blair, 70, passed away peacefully at his home on August 6, 2015. Royce was preceded in death by his parents Lee Roy and Merleigh Milam Blair and sister, Judy Bridges. He is survived by his loving wife and best friend of 46 years Karen Blankenship Blair; daughters, Alison Kathleen Blair and Ashley Blair Ohman and husband Trent; granddaughters, Blair Kathleen and Grace Eugenia Ohman, brother, Lynn Blair and wife Chris; sisters, Carolyn Byrnes, June Dunlap and husband, Robert; sister-in-law Eugenia Blankenship Zibby, several nieces and nephews, and many friends. He was also proceeded in death by his father and mother-in-law Robert and Kathleen Blankenship, and brothers-in-law Jim Byrnes and Michael P. Zibby. Royce was born April 22, 1945 in Shreveport, Louisiana. He grew up in East Texas and graduated from Longview High School. He enjoyed the great outdoors, where he loved to hunt and fish throughout his life. He also enjoyed country music and even had a little group that got together to play and sing. Royce and Karen met in college at Lamar University. He proudly served his country in the United States Air Force, where he attained the rank of Captain. He had a successful 43 year career with Stewart and Stevenson Corporation, where he held numerous management positions. Royce was a wonderful husband, father and provider for his family. One of Royce’s greatest roles was being “Grandad” to Blair and Grace. If desired, memorials may be made in Royce’s memory to Caring Ministries at St. Luke’s Methodist Church or to a charity of your choice. A memorial service will be Friday, August 28 at 11:00 in the chapel of St. Luke’s Methodist Church, 3471 Westheimer Rd., Houston, Texas 77027.