Roy Herbert Blain Jr., 94, of Melbourne, Florida, entered eternal rest on April 24, 2021.

Herb was born to Roy Herbert Blain Sr. and Josephine Blain (Preston) on July 12, 1926 in Gallipolis Ferry, West Virginia.  He is preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Marshall Blain, his sister, Nadine Harrell, his daughter, Victoria Blain, and his son, Philip Blain. Herb rejoins his beloved wife of 62 years, Kathleen Blain (Saunders). 

Herb is survived by his daughter, Kathleen Slattery, and his son, Roy Herbert Blain III. He is survived as “Papa” to an impressive legacy of 12 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandson.

Herb proudly served his country in the US Navy as a radioman during WWII on the USS Tucker as well as the Korean Conflict on the USS Ticonderoga.   Herb was very eager to serve and after some consideration, he convinced his parents to allow him to join the WWII effort at the tender age of 17 years.

After graduating from Marshall University (his beloved Thundering Herd), he moved his family to Ohio where he was employed by Wright Patterson AFB with the personnel department.  In 1967, Herb relocated to Melbourne, FL where he worked as a budget analyst for the Air Force Eastern Test Range at Patrick AFB.

Herb retired early in 1979 and was able to pursue personal interests such as family, friends, woodworking, gardening as well as spending time in his Blue Ridge Mountain Retreat in Robbinsville, NC.  He spent many hours in his workshop crafting wood into unique and personal memorabilia that would be given to his many friends and family. A wood craft from Herb was always a very special keepsake and treasured memory, and he continued to skillfully wield a scroll saw well into his 90’s to create more memories for those he cared for.

Herb was blessed with an excellent memory which he retained throughout his life. He had a story for every occasion, from every era of his life which he loved to share with his family and his friends on Facebook.  His favorite stories were from his time in the Navy and his mischievous antics with his brother Marshall in their youth. 

Many will remember and cherish his quick wit, love for white wine, sweets, biscuits & gravy, and a good western book.  Herb could devour a good Western story in 2 days, and the good guy always won.

Herb was known for his whole-hearted generosity, always willing to help family and friends in need without hesitation.   His primary focus in life was his large and expanding family.  His insight and wisdom were sought by all as his guidance was always sound and came from the love he held for his entire family.  His strong beliefs and values were always balanced by his tender and sentimental nature.  Tears of sentiment would always appear as the family would sit down to Thanksgiving Dinner together.   

Herb was well loved and cared for by his family and friends throughout his life.  He will continue to be in their hearts and his presence will be truly missed. 

As part of his “Thundering Herd”, please feel free to share any thoughts or memories of Herb.  He will love it.

For those interested, Herb’s heart was also focused on doing what he could to feed those who are hungry.  In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to your local food bank as a memorial to Herb.