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Obituary for Darrell Edward Blair
Darrell Edward Blair, 88, of Washington, IL passed away peacefully at Snyder Village in Metamora, IL on the afternoon of Thursday, February 2, 2023. He was a beloved son born to Edward Everett and Jessie Florine (Hinch) Blair on February 28, 1934 in Barry, IL.
Darrell was a proud graduate of Woodruff High School and went on to work over 40 years at Caterpillar, retiring as an Inspector in Morton in March of 1996. He lived for many pleasant years on Heather Court and then at Hollybrook in Washington, IL, and most recently at Snyder Village.
On August 20, 1972 Darrell married the love of his life, Doris L. (Selkirk) Riggins in Washington. Doris preceded him in death on December 4, 2011. Together they shared 7 children, 12 grandchildren, and the number of great-grandchildren grew to 10 over the years.
He enjoyed playing in the Peoria Baseball Leagues. In fact, his lifelong love of baseball was exemplified by often wearing red in support of his favorite teams, the St. Louis Cardinals, the Peoria Chiefs and the Bradley Braves. He began listening to both the St. Louis Cardinals and Bradley Men’s Basketball on the radio as a boy, and later supported the Bradley team at the Armory, the Fieldhouse and finally at Peoria Civic Center. He was also an avid fan of various NFL football teams.
One of his best buddies on and off the field was Royce Elliott. Together they shared a great sense of humor, a constant hallmark of his life. He shared a ready smile and infectious grin with everyone he encountered.
Darrell loved singing, gracing the church for some years with solo presentations. He was secure in his faith and trust in Jesus Christ. He often enjoyed the music of Andy Williams, Perry Como and Jim Reeves.
In March of 2012, Darrell adopted his sweet rescue dog, Butterfly, and they both enjoyed a number of years of mutual companionship. It's fair to say that Darrell was instantly touched and loved by every animal he ever met and was particularly close to dogs and cats. He was awed and inspired by the intelligence and affection he witnessed in all of God's creatures. Sam, thanks so much for your many recent visits. He loved each and every one. Special affectionate shout-outs also to Mex, to Callie and Buttons, Lucy and Toby, to Sable and Stella, Teddy and Missy, to Piglet, his Pal Joey and Princess Bunnie. Many other precious paws touched his life over the years and each one was a treasure to him.
Those that passed before him included his wife Doris, his father and mother, sisters Freda Mae King, Marjorie Florine Starr and brother Harry Dean Blair.
He is survived by his daughter Gail Blair of Pekin and son Larry Blair of Morton. In addition, he is survived by step-children, Dale Riggins (Laura) of Texas, Bill Riggins (Joan) of Peoria, Ron Riggins (Bev) of Washington, Marianne Rees (Jeff) of Washington, and Michael Riggins (Michelle) of Sleepy Hollow, IL.
A celebration of Darrell’s life will take place at Crossroads Methodist Church in Washington on Saturday, March 18th at 11am with visitation at 10am. Rev. Bruce Rushing will officiate. A light lunch will follow at 12:05pm as the St. Louis Cardinals take on the Detroit Tigers in Jupiter, FL.
Memorials may be made to OSF Hospice, Snyder Village or TAPS.
The Cremation Society of Mid-Illinois Co. Pekin/Peoria is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at csmico.com
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