Joseph Blair

Joseph Blair, of San Antonio, Texas, transitioned from his earthly home to his heavenly mansion prepared for him on January 19, 2023, surrounded by his family after a prolonged illness. Joe was born on November 7, 1955, in Galveston, Texas, to the late Elmer Blair and Daisy Richardson Blair.  After the death of his parents, Joe was grateful for Margaret Greenwood Briller’s unconditional love.

Joe accepted Christ at a young age at Greater Bell Zion Missionary Baptist Church in LaMarque, Texas, and attended public schools in the area. Throughout his life, he worked as a crewman on a shrimp boat, a ranch hand, in janitorial services at USAF Hospital Wurtsmith and as a Contractor at USAA.  Joe worked at the family restaurant “Boomerjacks” serving up delicious wings daily.  He loved adventure and traveled frequently, to areas including Galveston, Oregon, Michigan, and San Antonio, the later being, his favorite destination. Joe was a roadie for ZZ Top Rock Band, handling sound engineering, programming stage lighting and tuning guitars.  When ZZ Top performed in San Antonio at the USAA Christmas Party, Joe was excited to introduce “Billy Gibbons, Dusty Hill & Frank Beard” to his Family, this is one of his most cherished memories.  

Joe was a member of New Dimensions Ministries, serving on the hospitality committee, as a parking greeter and assisting with physical security.  As a USAA Contractor, Joe volunteered with the hurricane Katrina relief effort by helping with emergency shelter placement at Kelly AB, passing out box lunches, assisting with transportation to the Alamodome for New Orleans Saints NFL games, and provided emotional support and case management.  

He enjoyed fishing, camping, and spending time with his family.  In his past time, Joe loved to watch movies, play games like five crowns, catch phrases, dominoes, and gin rummy. He was a dedicated sports fan.  His favorite teams were the Cowboys, Texans, and Spurs.

Joe leaves to cherish and treasure many unforgettable wonderful memories with his loving Family.  He will be remembered by his supportive family, his wife, sisters, brothers, grandchildren and a host of uncles, aunts, nephews, nieces, cousins, in-laws, and friends.

He is survived by his wife Karen Draper Blair of 18 years; his son Quinton Blair and daughter Shayla Blair; stepson Norman Tucker; granddaughter Savahanna Hammonds and son-in-law Jon Hammonds; sisters Cynthia Roberts (Manuel) and Dr. Enitra D. Briller; brothers Godfrey J. Briller (Brandi), William C. Briller (Cathy), Darren D. Briller (Veronica); devoted nephew and niece Lonnie (Shawanda) Roberts, great nieces Shalon, Shannie, great nephew Lonnie B. Roberts Jr., devoted friends and family to Joe, William Hayes Price, Shalon Ward, Robert & Hilda Penn, and Howard & Jewel Spencer.  

Joe is preceded in death by his Parents, daughter, Brittany Daisy Blair and Lonnie F. Roberts (Big PawPaw), who he had a special bond with and would talk on the phone for hours while receiving dialysis three days a week prior to his kidney transplant.  Joe fought a good fight and has finished his course. He is now at home and in peace surrounded by these special family members and more.