Ms. Barbara Blair

Barbara Ann Blair was born on December 23, 1943, in St. Louis, Missouri, to Geneva Lucille Oliver and Henry Blair. She was the fourth of twelve children and was blessed with a large, loving family that shaped the compassionate and resilient woman she would become. Barbara accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior at a young age, and her faith remained the foundation of her life. She attended Vashon High School, where her natural curiosity and love of learning were evident. She had a passion for reading, writing, and studying—qualities that stayed with her throughout her life and inspired her lifelong commitment to education. As an adult, Barbara faithfully served her church by teaching Sunday School and tutoring both children and adults. Her love for teaching extended beyond the classroom and into her community when she founded Granny's School, an accredited home daycare where she nurtured and educated countless young lives with patience, wisdom, and love. Her passion for helping others learn also inspired her to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology from the University of Missouri–St. Louis. Barbara's gifts extended well beyond teaching. She was an accomplished writer for the Atchison Globe newspaper in Atchison, Kansas, where her inspirational column, "Selah," became a cherished regular feature. In recognition of her literary contributions, she received a Who's Who award for writers. She also served as a University Ambassador for the University of Missouri–St. Louis, where she had the honor of greeting Congresswoman Barbara Jordan during a university event. Barbara found joy in singing, watching classic movies, reading, and engaging in meaningful conversations. She possessed a remarkable ability to encourage others, offering timeless wisdom, thoughtful counsel, and unwavering love to her children, grandchildren, family, and friends. Her gentle spirit, compassionate heart, and steadfast faith left an enduring mark on everyone privileged to know her. On July 30, 2026, at 10:02 a.m., Barbara experienced the glorious sunrise of eternity as she was welcomed by her Savior into her Father's house, where she now dwells in perfect peace and everlasting joy. Barbara was preceded in death by her parents, Geneva Lucille Oliver and Henry Blair, and her beloved siblings, Eva Mae Moore, Donald Blair, Jacqueline Jackson, and Judy McCoy. She leaves to cherish her precious memory her six beloved children: Geneva LaTina Pruitt; Robin King (Frank); Robert Pruitt Jr. (Aida); Joseph R. Pruitt (Larena); Quincie Doh (George); and Brian Pruitt (Shanika). She was the proud and devoted grandmother of seventeen grandchildren and the treasured great-grandmother of twenty-two great-grandchildren. She is also lovingly remembered by her remaining siblings, Edward Blair, Richard Blair, Gerald Blair, Michael Blair, Spencer Blair, Milton Blair, and Quincie Humphrey, along with a host of cherished cousins, nephews, nieces, extended family members, and dear friends. Barbara's life was a beautiful testimony of faith, perseverance, compassion, wisdom, and unconditional love. She lived with purpose, served with humility, and loved without reservation. Though her earthly journey has ended, the legacy she leaves behind will continue to inspire generations. Her life reminds us that true greatness is found in faithfully loving God, serving others, and leaving the world better than you found it. "Well done, good and faithful servant... Enter into the joy of your Lord." — Matthew 25:23 Funeral Services will be held on August 15, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Refresh Church 10021 Bannister Road KCMO 64134. Interment: Lee Summit Historical Cemetery. Visitation: 9 –11:00 a.m. at the Church. Arrangements entrusted to Lawrence A. Jones Funeral Homes & Cremation. Condolences may be shared on our website lawrenceajones.com.

Ms. Barbara Blair

December 23, 1943 - July 30, 2026