Elisabeth Jane Blair's Obituary
Elisabeth Jane (Betty) Blair died Friday, October 4, 2024 under the care of Empath Suncoast Hospice and Arbor Oaks at Tyrone Assisted Living Facility.
She was born March 27, 1922 in Pittsburgh, PA to Arabelle Gray Lanyon and Samuel R. Lanyon. The family moved to Warren, Ohio, where Betty went to high school. She served as a majorette with the high school marching band.
After the start of WWII in 1939, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed into law the recognition of the WAVES as part of the U.S. Navy Service and Betty enlisted and entered Basic training on April 22, 1943. She attended Basic training at Hunter College, Bronx, New York. She rose through the military education and worked as an Aviation Machinist.
Her military and work history included time first in Japan and then Guam, where she met her future husband, Robert J. Blair. They were married in 1949. In 1959, they relocated to St. Petersburg, FL and have resided there since then.
Betty was active in the American Legion and upon her 100th birthday, was granted the status of Life Member at Post 273 (Madeira Beach). Upon her death, she had been a continuous member for 73 years. She was a member of the WAVES organization in Ohio, then in St. Petersburg, FL where she served as President of the "Sand Dollar" unit in 2011. Once retired, Betty volunteered at the Bay Pines VA Hospital, continuing to serve her fellow veterans.
Her travels were many and she relished the memories of her trips all across the world, even into her 100th year.
She and her husband attended St. Anne of Grace Episcopal Church in Seminole, FL.
Betty was predeceased by her parents, Arabelle and Samuel Lanyon, her husband Robert Blair, and many friends and relatives. She is survived by numerous friends, cousins, and first cousins, once removed.
Her service will be at Memorial Park Funeral Home and Cemetery in St. Petersburg, FL on Tuesday, October 22nd, 2024 beginning at 12:30 pm.
What’s your fondest memory of Elisabeth?
What’s a lesson you learned from Elisabeth?
Share a story where Elisabeth's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Elisabeth you’ll never forget.
How did Elisabeth make you smile?
