News Summary
John ‘Jack’ W. Bligh, Jr., a respected U.S. diplomat, passed away at 88 in Manlius, NY. His extensive career in the U.S. Diplomatic Service left a significant impact, both internationally and locally. Born in Manlius, Bligh served in various roles, receiving numerous accolades, including the Presidential Award for Meritorious Public Service. His dedication to community and veterans’ organizations will be fondly remembered. Calling hours are scheduled for May 16, with a graveside service following on May 17.
Manlius Mourns the Loss of Longtime Diplomat John “Jack” W. Bligh, Jr.
Manlius, NY—John “Jack” W. Bligh, Jr. passed away peacefully on March 16 at the age of 88 at Iroquois Nursing Home, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of service in the U.S. Diplomatic Service. His contributions not only impacted the international arena but also left a lasting impression on his hometown community.
Born and raised in Manlius, Bligh was a proud member of the first graduating class of Fayetteville-Manlius High School in 1954. During his high school years, he actively participated in basketball and six-man football, displaying early signs of leadership and teamwork. Following graduation, he served his country for three years in the U.S. Army before pursuing higher education at Le Moyne College and later Syracuse University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in history and a master’s degree in sociology.
He began his professional career as a teacher at South Lewis Central Schools, but his passion for global affairs led him to join the U.S. Diplomatic Service in 1966. Bligh was sworn in at a ceremony in Washington D.C., which featured James W. Riddleberger, the U.S. ambassador to Austria, as the principal speaker. His selection followed the successful completion of both a written and oral examination, highlighting his dedication and competence for the role.
Throughout his illustrious career, Bligh served in various embassies and consulates across the globe, including posts in Korea, Costa Rica, Liberia, Dusseldorf, Washington D.C., Barcelona, Madrid, Ottawa, Bonn, Brussels, and Australia. Notably, he helped U.S. businesses expand into foreign markets, playing a critical role in advancing American trade interests overseas. Bligh served as consul at the U.S. Embassy in Seoul and functioned as a commercial program adviser for Fiji and Papua New Guinea.
His exceptional contributions to international trade were acknowledged when he received the International Trade Association’s Manager of the Year award in 1991. Furthermore, he was honored with the Presidential Award for Meritorious Public Service from President George H.W. Bush in 1992, underscoring his significant impact on U.S. diplomatic relations.
Bligh took his leave from government service in 1996, transitioning into a role as a private business consultant, where he continued to assist American companies operating in Europe. After retiring, he and his wife, Helga, returned to Manlius in 1999, where he used his expertise to support local economic growth—most notably as part of the Metropolitan Development Association in Syracuse to recruit companies to Central New York.
In recognition of his accomplishments and lasting influence, Bligh was inducted into the Fayetteville-Manlius High School’s Hall of Distinction in 2002. Beyond his professional pursuits, he was an engaged member of the community, frequently contributing “Letters to the Editor,” expressing his views on current events, sports, and veterans’ issues.
He is predeceased by his wife, Helga; his parents, John W. Sr. and Gladys T. Bligh; and his brother, Terrence J. Bligh. He is survived by his two sons, Col. Edward W. (Chris) Bligh, USMC (ret), of Milroy, PA, and Major General David J. Bligh, USMC, of Arlington, VA; his daughter, Juliana E. Bligh of Beaufort, SC; his brother, Donald E. (Anne) Bligh of Manlius; his sister-in-law, Mary Bligh of Fulton; seven grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Calling hours are set for Friday, May 16, from 5-7 p.m. at the Newell-Fay Manlius Chapel. A graveside service will follow on Saturday, May 17, at 11:30 a.m. at Manlius Village Cemetery. The family requests that donations in lieu of flowers should be directed to a veteran’s organization, a veteran-related charity, or an outdoor charity to honor Bligh’s commitment to service.
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- Syracuse.com: Today’s Obituary – John “Jack” Bligh
- Wikipedia: Diplomatic Service
- Syracuse Obituaries: John Bligh
- Google Search: John Bligh
- Syracuse.com: Manlius Marine Ceremony
- Google Scholar: John Bligh
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Diplomatic Service
