Joseph Blair

Joseph William Blair or Lordburg, New Mexico passed away October 11, 2015, at his home in Lordsburg. Joe was born April 8, 1932, to William Oscar and Mary Wilmoth Blair in Safford. Joe attended his first grade of schooling in Eden with his mother as his teacher. The next few years of school were in Aravaipa and Klondyke, then went to 6th grade in Safford through his sophomore year. He graduated from Morenci High School in 1949. He attended the University of Arizona majoring in Animal Science. While at the University, he lived in the Aggie House and was on the Rodeo Team. He went to work for the University farm in Tucson, Arizona, graduating with a masters degree in 1957. He spent his entire life in agriculture, starting his career with the Valley National Bank as their agricultural loan officer and then for Ray Cowden Livestock. He eventually found his way back to the Gila Valley where he farmed for many years. Joe was a prominent cattle buyer and alfalfa hay grower and broker in Arizona and then expanded his operations into New Mexico. He was one of the largest hay traders in northwest New Mexico and eastern Arizona. Joe loved the racetrack and race horses, looking all his life for that one great runner. On his farm in Virden, New Mexico, he bred and raised many race horses. Joe was preceded in death by his mother and father. He is survived by his three children, Stacy, Allie (Leslie) Carolyn (Robin), three grandsons, one great-grandson, and his sisters, Maxine Bean and Jane Wyatt Services for Joe will be a private family affair.