Bigelow Beryl Bland, Jr.

Bigelow Beryl Bland, Jr., - A resident of Pace, Florida.  Bigelow, a father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away, Monday, November 6, 2023, in Ocean Springs, MS. Age 92.

He was born on July 17, 1931, in Little Rock, Arkansas.

Beryl dedicated 33 years of his life to serving his country. He began his career with the US Army and went on to work for the ASEC and Home Depot. As a retired Lieutenant Colonel in the US Army, he served as a tactical intelligence officer and demonstrated unwavering commitment to his work. Beryl's dedication took him to Vietnam twice, where he bravely served his nation there for a total of four years. He received numerous decorations and medals for his exceptional service, including the Bronze Star Medal, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal (10LC), Joint Service Commendation Medal, among many others. Beryl was also proudly associated with the Retired Military Officers Association.

While Beryl achieved great success in his professional life, it was his love and devotion to family that truly defined him. He was a proud man who always put his family first. His wife Betty Jean Bland stood by his side through thick and thin and shared in the joys and challenges of life together.

Beryl's children were a source of immense pride for him. His son David Beryl (April Lee) Bland and daughter Sharie Jean (John Hamilton Travers) Bourbeau brought joy into his life with their presence. Beryl's sisters Carol Bland Bearden and Margaret Bland Shandl held a special place in his heart as well.

As a father, grandfather and great-grandfather, nothing brought him more happiness than being involved in the lives of his grandchildren Timothy (Breck) Bland, Ashley Gaston, Britney Holland, and Erica Gardner; great-grandchildren Ryan, Jordan, Nevaeh, Cali, Rylie, Tiana, Hayven and Asa. He cherished the moments spent with them and created lasting memories that will be treasured forever.

Beyond his professional and family life, Beryl had a wide range of interests and hobbies. He was an avid Razorback fan, always showing unwavering support for his favorite team. Beryl loved Christmas and its treasured traditions. He delighted in waking up early on Christmas morning to the sounds of Handel's Hallelujah Chorus ringing through the house at 5 AM. Beryl also had a heart full of generosity and kindness and took on the role of Santa for children around him.

Beryl loved staying active in his community. Whether it was coaching little league baseball, engaging in neighborhood "meetings" in the driveway, or tending to his garden, he sincerely valued the connections he made with those around him. Trains held a special fascination for him, allowing him to embark on journeys of adventure and curiosity.

Among all his passions, perhaps the fondest was his unwavering love for Buddy, his cat companion. Buddy was not just a pet; he was a cherished member of the family and Beryl's best friend.

Beryl Bland Jr. will be remembered for his strength of character, dedication to service, love for family, and warm-hearted nature. His legacy will forever live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him.

Visitation will be held for Bigelow on Thursday, November 16, 2023, from 5-7 PM, at the Lewis Funeral Home, 4777 W. Spencer Field Road, Pace, FL. 32571.  

For all of those attending the committal service, on Friday, November 17, 2023, at Barrancas National Cemetery, 1 Cemetery Road, Pensacola, FL 32508, please meet in the parking lot of Olive Baptist Church, Warrington Campus, 103 Winthrop Avenue, Pensacola, FL 32507, at 9:30 AM.  A procession to the cemetery will depart at 9:45 AM, where military honors for Beryl will be held at 10:00 AM.

As we bid farewell to Beryl, we find solace in the knowledge that his remarkable spirit will continue to inspire us. May his soul rest in peace, forever surrounded by the love and gratitude of those whose lives were touched by his presence.

The Riemann Family Funeral Home, in West Jackson County is proudly serving the Bland Family.  Sign the online register book, and share memories and condolences at www.riemannfamily.com