Joseph Edmond Lair Jr., age 83, of Belton, Texas, passed away on May 9, 2026.

He was born on December 1, 1942, in Albuquerque, New Mexico, to Joseph Edmond Lair Sr. and Dorothy Mitchell. Dorothy later married Charles Sauer who raised Joe as his own.

Joe attended business school, where he trained as a court reporter. He enjoyed a long career with Houston Lighting and Power, working there for 36 years before retiring. Joe was also a member of the National Guard in the 60's. He was baptized by and a member of the Belton Church of Christ.

He was an avid collector and enjoyed attending estate sales and auctions, where he sought out items such as guns, coins, knives, silver, and curiosities like toy trucks and cash registers.

Joe was married first to Christine Hlawiczka from 1964 to 1972, and later to Linda Lee Markle from 1986 onward.

He is survived by his wife, Linda Lee Lair; his son, Charlie Lair and wife Dania, and their children Tabitha Lair, Anika Lair, and Miles Lair; his daughter, Erin Fry and husband Mark, Erin’s daughter Lauren Merrick, and great-grandchildren Braydon Bosnyak, Ezra Randig, and Dominik Rocha.

Preceded in death by grandson Rondal Canon Merrick as well as his parents, Dorothy, Charles, and Joseph Sr.

He will be deeply missed by his loving family and friends.