Obituary of Tom Blair

Thomas “Tom” Blair, 67, of Lutz, Florida, passed away on June 4, 2025. He was born on August 27, 1957, in Elmira, New York. Tom grew up in the Southern Tier, graduating from Horseheads High School in 1975 and later earning a degree in Design and Drafting from Alfred Agricultural and Technical College in Alfred, NY. His early talents for precision, problem-solving, and design carried into a career spanning decades in architectural woodworking, project management, and estimation, where he became known for his craftsmanship, attention to detail, and motto: “Do it right or not at all.” Long before his professional life, Tom’s competitive spirit took root in 1969 at the Soap Box Derby in Corning, NY, where he placed 1st in the overall race and earned the honor of competing at the national championships in Akron, Ohio. That formative experience inspired a lifelong love of motorsports. Tom carried that passion to Watkins Glen International and beyond, following the excitement of road courses around the world. His enthusiasm for speed, precision, and performance echoed through both his hobbies and his professional endeavors. Tom’s career took him from New York to North Carolina and eventually Florida. He worked with Carolina Custom Millwork and other premier woodworking companies before spending more than a decade with Firefighter, Inc., where he served as a Fire Extinguisher Inspector and Service Technician, helping to protect countless businesses and communities across central and west Florida. Those who knew Tom remember his devotion to excellence, his wry sense of humor, and his ability to connect with people in every walk of life — from contractors and co-workers to fellow racing fans and lifelong friends. Tom was preceded in death by his father, Douglas Blair (1975), and his mother, Barbara Blair (2016). He is survived by his brother, Larry Blair, who carries forward Tom’s memory and the enduring bonds of family. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the many friends, colleagues, and neighbors who enriched Tom’s life over the years. Your kindness and shared memories are a lasting comfort and a reminder of the connections he valued so deeply. Link for Tom Blair Celebration of Life photos https://www.larryblair.com/Public-Galleries/Tom-Blair/n-4rfg2D