Arnold M. Blair

Arnold "Marrell" Blair, born September 26, 1939 in Fairview, Kentucky, was sent to his eternal home on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, at 3:38p.m. at Columbus Regional Hospital, at the age of 85. Marty, as he was affectionally known, was a shining light in the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him. His journey on this earth was one marked by love and compassion. His passing has left a void in the hearts of his family, friends, and many more whose lives were touched by him. We ask that you remember him not for the way his life ended, but for the way it was lived, and for the profound impact left on the lives of those who had the pleasure of knowing him. Marty graduated from Whitesburg, Kentucky High School in 1958 and went on to graduate from Morehead State University College on a Basketball Athletic Scholarship. He moved to Columbus, Indiana, in 1962 and went to work for Cummins Engine Company. He then went to U.S. Airforce from 1965 until 1969 where he served in the Vietnam war. After the war, he returned to Cummins and retired from Quality Control in 1995 after 33 years of service. Marty then went to work for "The Phillips Company" as a Quality Consultant from 1995 until 2005 when he retired. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Marty is survived by his wife, Irene Buchanan Blair, of Columbus; Daughter, Mardella Blair Rager (Dan), of Columbus; Son, Robert Blair of Columbus; Stepchildren, Mark Buchanan (Patti Grider), of Columbus, and Troy (Kim) Buchanan, both of Columbus; Brothers Mitchell “Mick” (Valarie) Blair, of Indianapolis, and Sidney “Sid” (Maxine) Blair, both of Columbus; Grandchildren, Jonathon Blair, Jessica Blair, Kamzi Blair, John Robert Blair, and Samantha Blair, all of Columbus, and 7 great-grandchildren. He was proceeded in death by his parents, Robert Arnold Blair and Vula May (Lucas) Blair, of Thornton, Kentucky. Those wishing may make a memorial donation to the charity of your choice through the funeral home in Marty’s name. You are invited to light a virtual candle of remembrance and leave a condolence message to the family online at www.jewellrittman.com.