Jay Blackburn
Owner
Jay graduated in 1987 from J Sargent Reynold’s Community College with an associate’s degree in Opticianry. He started his career in the optical business in 1984 as a Lab Tech and formed McBride Blackburn Opticians in 1992 with Buzzy McBride, a popular Lynchburg Optician. When Buzzy retired in 2008, Jay became the sole owner of McBride Blackburn. When asked what he is most proud of about the business, Jay said, "Our business has grown to what it is today mostly through referrals from our loyal customers. Our goal has always been to offer extraordinary customer service and quality products." Jay has built many lasting relationships with customers who have become like family. Jay is married to Tammy Blackburn and has one daughter, Catherine, and two grandchildren, Charlotte and McAllister. In his spare time, Jay is an avid white water canoer and enjoys collecting local art.
Tabitha diaz
Licensed Optician since 2005
Tabitha has been part of the McBride Blackburn team since 2001. She started as the receptionist, but her love for the business and her co-workers made her decide to become a Licensed Optician. Tabitha enjoys both the retail and medical side of being an Optician. She says, “Being able to help a customer pick out a frame that suits their vision needs and makes them look and feel amazing is what it is all about. We all want them to leave looking good and seeing great!” Like everyone at McBride Blackburn, Tabitha believes that exceptional customer service is so important. She wants every customer to have the most enjoyable experience possible. Born and raised in Lynchburg, Virginia, Tabitha is married to Frank Diaz and they have two children, Mariah and Lucas. In her spare time she loves to entertain guests in her home, travel, and decorate.
Franklin Jefferson
Licensed Optician since 1988
McBride Blackburn Opticians is so happy to welcome Franklin Jefferson. Franklin has over 38 years’ experience in the optical business. His compassionate and charismatic personality is a true asset to our team. He is a 3rd generation Optician following in the footsteps of his grandfather, A.G Jefferson Sr., and his father, A.G Jefferson Jr. He started working for his father in the Optical business in 1985 as an apprentice. Three years later, he received his Optician's license in 1988. Franklin believes in selling high-quality eyewear and giving world-class service. In his free time, Franklin enjoys adding to his stylish wardrobe, and vacationing to Myrtle Beach. Franklin is married to Tina Jefferson, and they have one son, Brandon.
HANNAH bURNLEY
RECEPTIONIST
Hannah is usually the first face you see or the first voice you hear at McBride Blackburn Opticians. Her friendly demeanor and warm smile is a welcomed sight and a true asset here at McBride Blackburn. As the receptionist, Hannah says her favorite part of the job is greeting customers when they walk in the door. She loves any opportunity to meet people. Hannah is new to the eye care industry and is thoroughly enjoying
learning something new about it every day. In her free time, you can find her fishing with her
husband, Carter, or road-tripping through the mountains.