Bobby Plair, Sr Dies At 98

A longtime staple in the Rock Hill community has passed away. Bobby Plair Sr died this past weekend at the age of 98. He was born in Rock Hill and graduated from Friendship High School in 1945. He was drafted into military service and trained as a marine at Montford Pointe. He served in World War 2 and in 2012, the 368 surviving Montford Marines were awarded the Congressional Gold Medal, the nation’s highest civilian honor. After the military, he would earn a degree from North Carolina A&T, starting a career in music as a teacher, and band director. He served schools in Chester County, then to York County teaching at Fort Mill and Rock HIll. He was the leader of the acclaimed band “Plair” that entertained thousands of people at events throughout the region. As a band leader Mr. Plair has appeared with or opened for well-known acts such as Patti LaBelle and the Bluebells, The Ellington Orchestra, The Commodores, The Platters and more. In 2016, Mr. Plair was recognized as a Freedom Walkway Local Hero. And just this past March was given a key to the city. Mr. Plair was married to the deceased Juanita Scott Plair for over 58 years and they are the parents of three children. Sarah Plair Chisolm, Bobby Plair Jr. and Victor Scott Plair. Funeral arrangements are set for visitation this Friday from 5-7 at St.Mary’s Catholic Church with the Funeral on Saturday at 11AM at the same church.