John was true family friend and a gentleman in every sense of the word. Aeriana, Nicole, and Tristan grew up visiting Dr. Blair in Petersburg, at Kings, and the Country Club and he became a fixture at our table for many holidays, but he never wanted anything resembling a casserole! He treated them to their first lobsters, absolutely astonished that they'd never had them before.  A genuinely funny, caring, genuine friend to all of us. He is and will always be greatly missed. Food Lion popsicles were a staple whenever he was around and I'm glad that Cathy and I were able to bring him some and sit around and have (several) with him when we visited. 
Miss his sense of humor and conversation. 

What a professor he was. We still tell stories about his ability to remember every fact that he taught us like he was a tape recorder that you hit pause one day and play the next. He was quite the intellectual gentleman and was a pleasure to interact with as a student. As long as you were not late to his class. RIP Dr. Blair.

Dr. Blair was a true joy in the classroom. Because of him, I knew what a vitrola was at age 19! Unfortunately, he never promoted me to "OR," but I never held that against him. One of my favorite professors at Richard Bland College. He will be greatly missed.

I had the pleasure of knowing and working with John for many years at Richard Bland College. He taught me, among many things, the art of debate. He would come by daily to read the newspaper I brought from home. He would ask my opinion on headline articles and then take the opposing opinion, whether he believed it or not. He was a wealth of knowledge, a unique man with a quirky sense of humor. We had the pleasure of having him join us one thanksgiving for our family dinner. He was a delight to all there. I have missed him since he left Virginia. He made a huge impact on RBC and all who knew him. "see you later John" said in my best Boston accent.

John was such a dear friend. Always happy and jovial. I loved him so much that I would join him off and on at King's Barbeque to suffer through fried chicken livers, one of his favorites. The breadth and of his knowledge of history was astounding. I wish I had been able to take his classes. John's sense of humor was one of his hallmarks. The Pittmans love and miss you, John.

Dr. Blair was one of my favorite colleagues over the years at RBC. He was a unique individual who truly cared about his students and his friends and family. I spent many an afternoon discussing everything from history to theatre with him. His expertise in so many areas enriched my life. RIP