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Death Notice

Derek John BLAIR

Published on 06/07/2023

BLAIR Derek John Riding Mill. Peacefully at Wellburn House on 24th June 2023, aged 80 years. Derek much loved husband of Jean, loving father of Gayle and Nic, father-in-law of Simon and Karen, granda to Luke, Rose and Ruby. We greatly appreciate the excellent care Derek has received from everyone while at Wellburn. Funeral service to take place on Friday 14th July at 12 noon at St James Church Riding Mill. If you are unable to attend, the service will be available on Zoom via a link at the Church website, www.ridingmill.church Family flowers only please, donations if desired, in Derek's memory to St James Church P C C or Northumbria Branch of the Dry Stone Walling Association of Great Britain c/o Dodd's of Hexham NE46 2EW.

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August 3rd, 2023
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I spent my teenage years during the 1950's at Hexham Queen Elizabeth Grammar school along with Derek Blair. He was my best friend at school. And his wife Jean was in my sixth form class.
He was the best rugby player in our class by a mile and he was a first class discus thrower. Despite his athletic prowess he was modest and was much admired and well respected by everyone.
Our friendship extended to visiting each others homes and I well remember playing in the barn on the farm and enjoying football in the field next to his house.
I have a photo of him with me in the rugby team in 1959-60. Very Happy days.
fiona bououden July 8th, 2023
I was an Environmental Studies student from 1988 to 1991. Derek was an inspiration to his students. He was a wonderful man, kind and encouraging with a lovely sense of humour! He obviously loved what he did and wanted the best for those he taught. I am sad to hear of his death but what a legacy he has left behind in terms of the lives he touched. Derek made the course and what a blessing he was.
nick purslow July 8th, 2023
As an undergraduate of Environmental Studies between 1988+1991, Derek was always a quietly spoken and dedicated lecturer who showed immense kindness to me when my father was ill. I am saddened by his passing but hope that it gives succour to his family to know that he will always be fondly remembered; primarily as a decent human being. I have always tried to emulate his calm approach in my teaching career. Thank uou Derek and may you rest in peace!
Nicholas Purslow
Kevin Futers July 8th, 2023
I knew Derek as a student on the Environmental Studies course at Sunderland Polytechnic, which he led. A warm and friendly man, he was a great mentor and motivated us to succeed.
maggie askham July 7th, 2023
Derek led my Environmental Studies course at the then Sunderland Poly from 1988 to 1991. He was always warm and amusing and a fine example of an encouraging and committed tutor. A lovely man.