The Adair County community is mourning the loss of former County Clerk Sheila Blair, who died Tuesday. Blair dedicated 40 years of her life working in the clerk’s office in some capacity.
Blair served as Adair County clerk from 2007 until her retirement in 2014. She later returned to the office as a part-time bookkeeper and remained employed there at the time of her death.
Blair began her career after former County Clerk Joyce Rodgers hired her as a deputy clerk. Over the next four decades, Blair could do any task in the office and became a familiar face to generations of Adair County residents.
County Clerk-elect Nadalie Inscho, who was a close friend to Blair, said Blair’s dedication to the community extended far beyond her career.
“There was no greater person. She would help anybody with anything. When somebody in the community needed something, she was the first one to reach out to give,” she said.
“She was loyal to this county and to this office,” said Inscho.
Inscho has known Blair her entire life and said she was present for many of the most important moments in her life.
“I don’t remember much of my life without her. She was there for all of the big events in my life,” she said. “She was with my mom when she had to tell me my dad had a heart attack and died. You name it, she’s literally been there through it all with me.”
Inscho said Blair was someone she could always turn to for advice. She had a calm and easy-going demeanor and “gave the best advice.”
Blair’s love for her family was also a defining part of her life. She treasured her grandchildren, who Inscho said were Blair’s pride and joy.
“She had a huge family and loved them deeply,” said Inscho.
Outside of work and family, Blair enjoyed traveling to the beach and mountains. She would not miss an opportunity to take a trip.
“She was the first person to ever take me to the Smokies,” she said.
Inscho, who is preparing to take office as Adair County Clerk in January, said Blair played an integral part in her career. She said that Blair taught her everything she could and supported her during the election process.
Although she was sick, Blair was at the annex election night logging the results as she had for years.
“She was supposed to hold the Bible for me to be sworn in,” she said. “Three weeks ago, we were talking about what outfits we were going to wear.”
Blair’s years in the clerk’s office left an enduring mark on Adair County, but those who knew her say her greatest legacy was the people she cared for, helped and stood beside throughout her life.
By Amy Pike
amy@adairvoice.com
