Blair Philip Ferrier, born on December 2, 1965, in Moline, Illinois, passed away unexpectedly on February 14, 2025, in Austin, Texas. He was the beloved son of Keith and Betty Ferrier and the cherished husband of Michelle Ferrier.
He spent his childhood in Moline, IL, graduating from Moline Senior High School in 1983. After High school, he headed to Memphis, TN to pursue a degree in Choral Vocal Music at Memphis State University. As a music major, he joined the University Singers where he met the love of his life, Michelle (Erger) Ferrier. During his time at Memphis State, he also entered the Army Early Commissioning Program and completed Airborne School, earning his jump wings.
Blair and Michelle’s courtship included driving horse drawn carriages in Memphis, TN. They married on March 31st, 1989 (April Fools!), and continued driving carriages, eventually moving to Georgia to manage a friend’s Carriage Company. When Blair married into the Erger clan, he gained a second family whom he always cherished. He built log cabins with his father-in-law, Ed, and enjoyed delicious family dinners presided over by his loving mother-in-law, Barbara. He fit right in with his new siblings, Melissa, Eddie, and Eric’s outrageous sense of humor and love of practical jokes. They welcomed him into the family by writing “Help” and "Me” on the bottoms of his shoes so the whole church could read it when he knelt at the altar at their wedding.
Blair dedicated two decades of his life to military service in the U.S. Army. His career took him across the world, including being stationed in Germany where he and Michelle welcomed their son, Ian, in 1994. Throughout his service, Blair demonstrated unwavering commitment and excellence. He earned his airborne wings and served as an expert field medic before being stationed at Fort Irwin, California. Later in his career, he toured internationally with the Army Soldier Show in 1996 and 1997 as an Audio Engineer, before becoming an Audio Engineer for the West Point Army Band. During his time at West Point, NY He was a dedicated servant to the West Point Chapel where he spent his Sundays behind the audio console serving his community and teaching his son, Ian, his craft. Another great passion he shared with Ian was paintball on the weekends, including time spent with the West Point Paintball Club and at many big scenario events.
His dedication to his country was recognized with numerous commendations, including the National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and multiple awards for meritorious service.
Beyond his military career, Blair had a deep passion for theater and education. He generously volunteered as a sound engineer for James I. O'Neill High School’s performing arts programs in New York. After moving to Austin, he became a vital member of the Crockett High School Theatre production support team, volunteering countless hours mentoring students interested in sound design and engineering, and lending his expertise to ensure all events supported by Crockett Theatre students had the highest quality of sound possible.
In his final professional role, Blair served as a Senior System Support Specialist for the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM), where his contributions were highly valued. In recognition of his dedication and impact on emergency management communications, he received the Heart of TDEM Award in 2023. Additionally, Blair was an FAA-approved drone pilot with TDEM—a testament to his ever-evolving skill set and commitment to service.
Blair is survived by his wife Michelle, son Ian, daughter-in-law Mikaela, and grandson Aemon Pike Ferrier; uncle Bill Van de Velde; half-brothers Darren Patrick (Gloria) McKnight and Brian McKnight; and niece Sydney McKnight.
A visitation for Blair will be held Friday, March 7, 2025 from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Weed-Corley-Fish Funeral Homes and Cremation Services, 2620 South Congress Avenue, Austin, TX 78704. A funeral service will occur Saturday, March 8, 2025 from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Weed-Corley-Fish Funeral Homes and Cremation Services. Inurnment to take place at a later date at West Point Cemetery, 329 Washington Rd., West Point, NY 10996.
Blair lived a life filled with purpose—whether through his military service, artistic contributions, or dedication to helping others succeed. His legacy of service, humor, generosity, and mentorship will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.
His memory will continue to inspire those whose lives he touched so deeply.
