Gary Lee Blair

Gary Lee Blair, 72, of Naples, Florida, and formerly of Asheville, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on June 11th, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on July 2, 1952, in Asheville, Gary was a proud native of the area. He graduated from Enka High School in 1970 before honorably serving his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam era. After his military service, he pursued higher education and earned his degree from Western Carolina University.

A passionate innovator and entrepreneur, Gary founded Softbase Systems, a computer software company, where he served as owner and president for many years. His leadership and forward-thinking approach left a lasting mark in the technology industry and the professional lives of many.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Halbert and Christine Blair, his brothers Kenneth Faulkner and Halbert L. Blair Jr., sister Jean Blair Edmundson and niece Bethany Rae Blair.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 44 years, Sheila Blair, of Naples, FL; his sons, Clay Blair (sp: Lizzy Blair of Los Angeles) and Hayes Blair (Naples); and his cherished granddaughter, Eleanor Blair of Los Angeles, CA, brothers Dean Blair (sp: Kathy Blair of Asheville NC), Bill Blair (sp: Cindy Blair of Knightdale NC), and sister Debbie Blair Stallings (sp: Don Stallings) of Surfside Beach SC, 11 nieces/nephews and 4 grandnieces/nephews.

He was an avid private airplane pilot, scuba diver and staunch Republican and enjoyed every moment engaging in all those adventures.

Gary will be remembered for his humor, sharp intellect, unwavering dedication to family and country, and his generous spirit. His legacy lives on in those who knew and loved him.

A celebration of Gary’s life will be held at 2 PM on Saturday, June 21, 2025, at Central United Methodist Church, 27 Church St, Asheville, NC 28801. A reception will follow.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Gary’s memory to a veterans’ charity of your choice.

Anders-Rice Funeral Home and Cremation Center is honored to serve the Blair family.