The WJ community, county and state lost a strong leader on June 29 when Maryland School Board member and former county councilman and MCPS Board of Education (BOE) member Blair Ewing passed away at 75 after a battle with charachinoid cancer.

Ewing’s term on the BOE began in 1976. He was re-elected six times and served as president of the board twice. During his 22-year term, he spoke to desegregate schools and provide better services for poorer students, among many other things.

“Throughout [this] period, [Ewing] was a familiar figure in our community,” said former PTSA President Tom Murphy in an e-mail to the PTSA listserv. “He visited our schools often and he was keenly interested in our issues and concerns. He was a regular at [Farmland Elementary School’s] operas. And for those of us who were fortunate enough to come to know him through PTSA, he became a close friend and a valued advisor, always available and willing to help.”

Ewing retired from the BOE when he was elected to the County Council in November 1998. As chairman of the council’s Health and Human Services Committee, Ewing was known for his advocacy for the mentally ill. Ewing was also a member of the council’s Transportation and Environment Committee, where he pushed for the building of stronger protections against noise qualities and for better water and air quality.

Although Ewing lost a re-election campaign in 2002, he was appointed to the State Board of Education in 2007. His endless work for the community is remembered by many, including his former colleagues.

“Blair Ewing provided so many years of tireless service to the residents of Montgomery County,” said County Council President Phil Andrews. “His unparalleled service made a lasting impression in the county.”

Ewing leaves behind his wife Martha Brockway and two sons.

“His passing leaves a huge void in our community, but his example provides us great hope for the future,” said Murphy.