Shirley Ann Blair

Shirley Ann Blair, 90, of Allegany Street, Lonaconing, died Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2026, at home. Born on Sept. 19, 1936, in Lonaconing, she was the daughter of the late William Gustave Schaidt and Mabel (Wilt) Schaidt.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Stuart, in 2007, and a brother, Bill Schaidt, in 1996. She was the last surviving member of her immediate family.

Shirley was valedictorian of the 1954 class of Valley High School. She went on to earn a bachelor’s degree at Frostburg State College and completed graduate courses for a master’s equivalency. During her career she taught English at both Bruce High School and Valley High School. She also worked as a substitute teacher and private tutor for many years. She was known for her kindness, her smile, and pride in her family.

She was an active member of the First Presbyterian Church of Lonaconing, having served as Sunday School Superintendent and also as a member of the session and choir.

Throughout her life, Shirley was an active member of her community. For over 50 years she was a member of the Martha Washington Chapter No. 10 of the Order of the Eastern Star and most recently within the McKinley Chapter No. 12, Cumberland. She was a member of the PTA and Band Boosters; she was a Girl Scout leader, and a coordinator for the Crop Walk and The AHA. She also served on the Oak Hill Cemetery Association board.

She is survived by her children, Catherine A. Blair Skena and husband Tom of Camp Hill, Pa., Arthur Blair and wife Rita of Lonaconing, and Jennie Blair and husband Nathan Crawford of Harrisburg, Pa.; two grandchildren, Coty Blair and Dean Crawford, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Family and friends will be received on Friday, Oct. 30, 2026, from 10 a.m. – noon at Wilhelm-Eakin Funeral Home, P.A., Lonaconing. McKinley Chapter No.12, Order of the Eastern Star will conduct a memorial service at 11:30 a.m. A funeral service will follow at noon with the Rev. Thomas Morgan officiating. Inurnment will take place at a later date at Frostburg Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the First Presbyterian Church at 1 East Main Street, Lonaconing, MD 21539.