Mark Anthony Pair (Plainview)

Mark Anthony Pair, 86, of Plainview passed away on July 16, 2026. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Tuesday, July 21, 2026 at Kornerstone Funeral Directors Chapel in Plainview, Texas. A private burial will be held before the service. Funeral arrangements are under the care of Kornerstone Funeral Directors of Plainview. 

Mark was born in Slaton, Texas on June 11, 1940 to Floyd and Bessie Pair. Mark's academic journey took him through Texas Tech University and Southern Methodist University, where he earned his Master's Degree. Shortly after, he embarked on a fulfilling career at Wayland Baptist University, where he dedicated himself to teaching and inspiring generations of students. Mark was an instructor of piano and music theory for 36 years at Wayland. After retirement, he became Wayland's first Piano Artist in Residence. Mark was known for his unwavering passion for music; often practicing for six hours a day, except for Sundays. This discipline and devotion culminated in his later years when he earned the title of Emeritus Professor, a testament to his impact on the institution and his enduring love for education. Mark's kindness and infectious smile made it impossible to know him without feeling like a friend. He had a remarkable gift for remembering every student's name, something that endeared him to many. His large circle of friends often gathered for morning coffee at McDonald's, where laughter and stories were shared. He found joy in the simple moments of life, including cherished trips to Red River, New Mexico, which held a special place in his heart. In addition to his students and friends, Mark dearly loved his wife, Helen.

Mark is preceded in death by his wife, Helen Pair; parents, Floyd and Bessie Pair; and siblings, Billy Edwin Pair and Doris Merle Pair Davis.

Mark is survived by his sister, Marth Willard and husband Jess, and numerous nieces and nephews.