William R. "Bill" Bland

William R. "Bill" Bland, 85, of Clyattville died Monday, June 22, 2015 at Fellowship Home. Born on September 26, 1929 to the late David Luther Bland and Edith Johns Bland, he had been a lifelong resident of this area. After graduating from Clyattville High School in the mid 1940's, Mr. Bland joined the U.S. Army. Having fought in the Korean War, he was patriotic throughout his life. After his time in the Army, he came home and farmed briefly before going to work on the crews that were building the Paper Mill in Clyattville. He continued working there for over 40 years and retired in the mid 1990's as the Recovery Operator at the mill. Following his retirement, he worked for Lowndes County at several of the Recycling Centers for over 10 years. Mr. Bland really enjoyed woodworking projects to fix and build things for family and friends. He also grew vegetables in his garden to share with others and enjoyed relaxing on the swing in the front yard. He was a member of Clyattville United Methodist Church.
Survivors include his children and their spouses, Kathy Bland Manning and Boyce Manning of Flowery Branch, Marty and Debbie Bland of Hahira, Lee Bland Kirkland and Tracy Kirkland of Valdosta; his grandchildren, Nicole Manning, Brandon Bland, Madison Bland, Heather (Aaron) Royals and Crysta Spooner; and a great grandchild, Adalynn Royals. Also surviving is a brother and sister in law, Maxwell T. and Margaret Bland of Albany; a special niece JoAnn Rust and several other nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife Ruby Lawanna Lightsey Bland, and a brother Clarence Bland.
The funeral services for Mr. Bland will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, June 25, 2015, at the Chapel of Carson McLane Funeral Home, with Rev. Tommy Bussey officiating. Burial will follow in the Benevolence Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 5 until 7 p.m. on Wednesday, June 24, 2015 at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Halcyon Hospice, 101 E. Northside Drive Valdosta, GA. Condolences to the family may be conveyed online at www.mclanecares.com. Carson McLane Funeral Home


Funeral Home:
Carson McLane Funeral Home
2215 North Patterson Street
Valdosta, GA
US 31602