James Blair Kerr died Thursday, April 19, 2012, at the age of 79. He was born in Forth, Lanarkshire Scotland on June 4, 1932. James was the son of Jane L. (Blair) and Robert Kerr. He was predeceased by his loving wife Robina "Ruby" (Fleming) Kerr, his son Robert Kerr, daughter June Kerr Carlson, his parents, and brothers Blair, Thomas, and John Kerr. James is survived by his two grandsons Eric and Ryan Kerr of Paxton and four sisters, Vanessa McCallum and Sheena Doyle of Worcester, Roberta Fitzpatrick of Florida and Elizabeth Andrews of Charlton. He also leaves many nieces and nephews.
When James came to the United States, he joined the Worcester Kiltie Band. He eventually became Pipe Major. Under his leadership, he led the band to world-class piping which included the American Championship five times and the Canadian Championship two times. James also took the band to Scotland where they competed against some of the world's best in a competition and won in one competition - making them the first band from anywhere in the world to beat the Scots. After retiring from the band, he focused on teaching and was a frequent and well-regarded pipe band judge throughout North America. James served for two years in Malaysia with the British Army and also played semi-professional soccer in both Scotland and the United States. James worked for 30 years as an engineer for Morgan Construction Company.
Visitation will be Saturday April 28, from 12-1 pm at Nordgren Memorial Chapel, 300 Lincoln Street, Worcester. A memorial service follows at 1 p.m. Burial will be at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: Alzheimer's Association, 311 Arsenal St., Watertown, MA 02472.
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