John LeRoy Blair, 71

December 1, 1954 – October 16, 2026

John LeRoy Blair, affectionately known to those who loved him as “Pop-Pop,” “Honey,” “Johnny Boy,” “Big John,” “John-John,” and “Wirey,” passed away peacefully on October 16, 2026, in Lakeland, Florida, surrounded by his beloved family. He was 71 years old.

Born on December 1, 1954, in Meadville, Pennsylvania, John was the son of Clare LeRoy Blair and Priscilla Sauls Blair. At the age of six, he moved with his family to Hardee County, Florida, where he grew up and began building the foundation for a life defined by hard work, loyalty, and an unwavering love for his family. In 2002, he made Lakeland, Florida, his home.

John was a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, and faithful family man. Above all else, he was someone his family could always count on. Whether in times of joy and celebration or moments of difficulty and need, John was there for the people he loved. His steadfast devotion to his wife, Carolyn Joslin Blair, and his family was the cornerstone of his life. He showed his love through his actions, his dependability, and his constant presence.

John pursued his education with determination, earning his high school diploma from Hardee County High School, a bachelor’s degree in Law Enforcement from Florida State University, and a master’s degree in Criminal Justice from Rollins College. His educational achievements reflected his commitment to public service and his desire to make a meaningful difference in his profession.

John dedicated 33 years of his career to the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation, Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco (ABT). Throughout his distinguished career, he served as Captain of the Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco and ultimately retired with the rank of Law Enforcement Major. His outstanding service and dedication earned recognition for his contributions to the citizens of Florida and the Department of Business and Professional Regulation. His career was a testament to his professionalism, leadership, and unwavering commitment to public service.

Outside of his career, John found his greatest happiness in life’s simple pleasures and the time he spent with those he loved. He especially cherished traveling with Carolyn, whether relaxing together at the beach, exploring the mountains, or setting sail on a cruise. Some of their most treasured moments were spent sitting side by side, watching the sunset and enjoying the peace and beauty of simply being together. These quiet moments reflected the deep love and companionship they shared throughout their life together.

A passionate sports fan, John especially loved baseball and treasured watching his son play. He took great pride in following the teams his son played on and cheering him on from the stands. He was also a devoted Florida State University football fan and proudly supported all the Tampa Bay sports teams, including the Rays, Lightning, and Buccaneers. He also enjoyed watching the Boston Red Sox with his son. Whether celebrating a victory or sharing the excitement of a game, sports gave John and his family countless opportunities to make memories that will be cherished for years to come.

Nothing brought John greater joy than his family and grandchildren. He loved attending their sporting events, cheerleading competitions, and other activities, always eager to cheer them on, encourage them, and watch them pursue the things they loved. He was proud of each of them and treasured the opportunity to be part of their lives. Among his sweetest memories were the quiet moments spent reading books and playing dolls with his youngest grandchild. These simple acts of love, along with the countless moments he shared with his family, created a legacy of warmth and affection that will live on for generations.

John’s legacy is one of loyalty, faithfulness, and unconditional love. He was a man who did not simply speak of devotion; he lived it every day. He showed up when he was needed, stood beside those he loved, and found his greatest fulfillment in the happiness of his family. His steady presence, unwavering support, and generous heart made him an irreplaceable part of the lives of those who knew and loved him. Though his passing leaves a profound emptiness, the memories he created, the lessons he imparted, and the love he gave will remain in the hearts of his family forever.

John is survived by his beloved wife, Carolyn Joslin Blair; his children, John (Austin) Blair and his fiancée, Lexi McKinzie; Lyndsey Jones and her husband, Dustin; and Glynvin Ladner and his wife, Jenna. He also leaves behind his eight cherished grandchildren: Adalyn, Dayton, Aidan, Kaylyn, Glynvin, Kendall, Karter, and Jesse, each of whom held a special place in his heart and brought him immeasurable joy.

He is also survived by his niece, Clare Cushman; his nephew, Jesse Cushman, and Jesse’s wife, Ashley; his great-nephews, Noah and Elliot; and his brother-in-law, Jack Cushman.

John was preceded in death by his father, Clare LeRoy Blair; his mother, Priscilla Sauls Blair; his sister, Leila Blair Cushman; his paternal grandparents, Thene and Grace Blair; and his maternal grandparents, Niram and Minnie Sauls.

John will be remembered as a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, dedicated public servant, and loyal friend. His life was not measured solely by his professional accomplishments, but by the love he gave, the people he supported, and the countless ways he made his family feel cherished. His greatest legacy is the family he loved so deeply and the memories that will continue to bring comfort, smiles, and warmth to those who miss him.

He was deeply loved, will be profoundly missed, and will never be forgotten.

“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.”

— Hebrews 11:1 (King James Version)

Visitation will be held on Friday, October 23, 2026, at 10 am at Heath Funeral Chapel, 328 S. Ingraham Avenue, Lakeland FL 33801, with services following at 11 am. Interment will take place at Springhead Cemetery at 1:30 pm.

Pallbearers, John Austin Blair, Jesse Cushman, Arnold Lanier, Terry Wells, Dave Ulsh and Jake Salvador.

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Condolences may be sent to the family at https://www.heathfuneralchapel.com/obituaries/john-blair.