Rock Hill, South Carolina, November 26, 2025
The Rock Hill community gathers to honor the life and legacy of Bobby ‘B.S.’ Plair, Sr., a distinguished musician and WWII veteran, who recently passed away at 98. His funeral service will provide an opportunity for friends and family to celebrate his remarkable contributions to music and military service, along with fond memories from his impactful career as a teacher and band director.
Rock Hill, South Carolina
Honoring Bobby “B.S.” Plair, Sr.: A Legacy of Service and Music
Rock Hill bids farewell to a local legend, Bobby “B.S.” Plair, Sr., who passed away at the age of 98 on November 23, 2025. A distinguished musician and World War II veteran, Plair’s journey from Rock Hill to the frontline of American history is a testament to the resilience and unwavering spirit that characterizes this community. His contributions as an artist and a pioneer in the military continue to resonate within the hearts of many in York County.
The upcoming funeral service, scheduled for 11 a.m. on Saturday, November 29, 2025, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, serves as an opportunity for the community to come together and celebrate a life rich in achievement and influence. His family invites friends to share fond memories during visitation on Friday evening.
Early Life and Military Service
Bobby Plair was born on March 22, 1927, in Rock Hill. His journey unfolded at Friendship High School, where he graduated in 1945. Shortly after, he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps at the age of 18, training at Montford Point, North Carolina. As part of the first African American Marines, Plair served valiantly in the Pacific Theater during World War II and received an honorable discharge in 1946.
Musical Career and Community Involvement
Post-military life saw Plair channeling his passion for music into a career as a teacher and band director. He earned a degree from North Carolina A&T University and founded the well-known band “Plair,” captivating audiences across the region. His dedication not only to music but also to mentoring young musicians has left an indelible mark on the Rock Hill community.
Recognition and Legacy
In 2012, Bobby Plair and his fellow Montford Marines were honored with the Congressional Gold Medal, the highest civilian award bestowed by the U.S. Congress. Plair was proud to receive his medal during a special ceremony in Rock Hill in July 2013, marking a significant moment recognizing the bravery and groundbreaking contributions of African American Marines during a pivotal era in U.S. history. His legacy serves as an inspiration, especially for young people pursuing their dreams against the odds.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who was Bobby “B.S.” Plair, Sr.?
Bobby “B.S.” Plair, Sr. was a distinguished musician and World War II veteran from Rock Hill, South Carolina. He was part of the first African American Marines trained at Montford Point during World War II and later became a teacher, band director, and musician, leading the acclaimed band “Plair.”
What is the significance of Montford Point Marines?
The Montford Point Marines were the first African American Marines trained at Montford Point, North Carolina, during World War II. Their service was a significant step toward desegregation in the U.S. military.
What is the Congressional Gold Medal?
The Congressional Gold Medal is the nation’s highest civilian honor, awarded by the U.S. Congress to individuals who have made significant contributions to the country. In 2012, the surviving Montford Marines, including Plair, received this honor.
When and where is Bobby Plair’s funeral service?
The funeral service for Bobby “B.S.” Plair, Sr. is scheduled for 11 a.m. on Saturday, November 29, 2025, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 902 Crawford Road, Rock Hill, South Carolina. Visitation will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. on Friday at the same location.
Key Features of Bobby “B.S.” Plair, Sr.’s Life and Legacy
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Birth | March 22, 1927, Rock Hill, South Carolina |
| Military Service | Enlisted in U.S. Marine Corps at 18; trained at Montford Point, North Carolina; served in Pacific Theater during World War II; honorably discharged in 1946 |
| Education | Graduated from Friendship High School in 1945; earned degree from North Carolina A&T University |
| Career | Teacher, band director, and musician; led the band “Plair,” entertaining audiences throughout the region |
| Recognition | Received Congressional Gold Medal in July 2013 for service as a Montford Point Marine |
| Funeral Service | Scheduled for 11 a.m. on Saturday, November 29, 2025, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 902 Crawford Road, Rock Hill, South Carolina; visitation from 5 to 7 p.m. on Friday at the same location |
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Rock Hill Music Community Mourns D. Jeffery Sligh
Author: STAFF HERE ROCK HILL
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