Salem - Anna Louise (Gaston) Blair, 89, left this world on November 23, 2025 in Salem, Oregon. She was a beloved spouse of George A. Blair (passed in 1984) and an engaged and loving mother to George A. Blair Jr, and Robert L. Blair. She will be remembered with her positive and optimistic spirit, energy, outlook, and her meaningful relationships with others. Many replied upon learning of her passing, saying that she was like their "Second Mother" (comfort, love and, a gracious smile and hugs). Her positivity, sometimes uncontrollable laughter, determination to fight on through many of lives challenges with a positive attitude, and one that never wanted to be a weight to anyone was a living testament to her.

Born in Ogallala, Nebraska on July 16, 1936, her family migrated to Portland, Oregon and lived in Van Port during WW2. Her father passed and her mother moved to Woodland, Washington. There she excelled in school, achieving Planters Day Queen and head majorette. She loved to dance and was a performer and instructor. In Woodland, she met her future husband, George, who was one school year behind her. She waited until he graduated and they married on her birthday (to many, a fairytale wedding). They moved to Portland, Oregon and had their sons, George and Robert. Her family then moved from Portland to Sunset Beach, Oregon; a year later, Olney; and 8 years later, Astoria, where she worked, lifted others' spirits as an employee, and retired from the City of Astoria. A few years after her husband's passing, she moved to Warrenton with great friend and partner in life for the past 4 decades, James Thornton. The last decade, they moved to Independence, Oregon, to further invest in hobbies, have fun, and be closer to medical resources.

She is preceded in death by her father, Franklin Gaston; mother, Agnus; two brothers, Calvin, and Bill Gaston; sister, Loreen Gardner; and George A. Blair, husband. Surviving close family are sons, George A. Blair Jr and Robert L. Blair; 5 grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren.

The family may hold a memorial this coming summer when travel is more secure. Her wish is to play Louis Armstrong's "What a Wonderful World" and celebrate her life!