Born in Topeka, KS, on March 17, 1933, he was a graduate of Ottawa University (KS) and the American Baptist Seminary of the West (CA) as well as holding a D.Min. from the New York Theological Seminary.

Before retiring in 1995, Blazier served for nine years as national director of the Ministers-at-Large Program, the agency that partners with ABC regions and churches to provide interim leadership for churches during times of transition in pastoral leadership.

Blazier came to that position after serving for almost 20 years on the staff of the Division of Church Education for American Baptist Educational Ministries. His portfolio during those years focused on curriculum interpretation, educational planning, church school administration, and ministry with adults.

During that time, Blazier wrote and edited a number of books on planning and administration of Christian education.

Prior to his work on the national denominational staff, Blazier was pastor of the First Baptist Church, Hudson, NY, and the Cazenovia Village Baptist Church, Cazenovia, NY.

After retiring, Blazier led a clergy group, a Bible study, and a Family History Writing Group for Shannondell Retirement Community, where he and his wife have lived. Blazier was also passionate about sharing his love of music, singing in church choirs and local choral groups, including Elmwood Terrace Choir, Norristown Chorale, Wayne Oratorio Society, and Shannondell Singers.

Blazier is survived by his wife, Elaine, a daughter, Lynnette Thayer; two sons, Greg and Kyle; and seven grandchildren.

American Baptist Churches is one of the most diverse Christian denominations today, with 5,500 local congregations comprised of 1.3 million members across the United States and Puerto Rico, all engaged in God’s mission around the world.