Jim Blair, the influential former general counsel for Tyson Foods and a celebrated Arkansas philanthropist, has died at the age of 90. A longtime friend of former President Bill Clinton and Hillary Clinton, Blair’s passing marks the end of an era for the state’s business and civic communities.
- Who: Jim Blair, former Tyson Foods general counsel and major philanthropist.
- Age at Death: 90 years old.
- Key Legacy: Served two decades as Tyson’s legal chief and was the namesake benefactor of the Fayetteville Public Library.
- Notable Friends: Maintained a decades-long friendship with Bill and Hillary Clinton, who recently honored him at a public event.
An Unforgettable Legacy in Business and Philanthropy
For two decades, Jim Blair was a pivotal figure at Tyson Foods, serving as the company’s general counsel and helping to shape its corporate trajectory. Beyond the boardroom, his impact was profoundly felt in his community. Blair was the primary benefactor of the Fayetteville Public Library, donating millions over the years to the institution that now bears his name.
His remarkable life was recently celebrated in the documentary, “Nothing But the Truth: The Improbable Life of an Arkansas Giant.”
Tributes from a Corporate Dynasty and Political Power Couple
The esteem in which Blair was held is reflected in the powerful tributes emerging from those who knew him best. One of his final public appearances was at an October 2025 screening of his documentary, an event poignantly attended by his close friends, Bill and Hillary Clinton.
The Tyson family, with whom Blair worked for decades, released an emotional statement acknowledging his profound impact:
“We are saddened by the passing of Jim Blair, but grateful for the many years of wonderful friendship between our two families. Jim was a valued and important member of Tyson Foods for several decades, serving as the company’s General Counsel for 20 years. He made an indelible impact on Northwest Arkansas and across the state. We, along with so many others, are fortunate to have experienced his generous spirit and love of life. We send our thoughts and prayers to his family, and all those who knew and loved him.”
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