Earl Grant Bland

He was born on July 14, 1938 in Lonaconing, MD. At age 18, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and served in the 3rd Marine Division. Earl then joined the Maryland State Police force and later, the Baltimore City Police force. He spent the remainder of his career in computer technology.

Earl is survived by Connie Bland, his cherished wife of 38 years. He was the devoted father to Jennifer Shahdi (son-in-law, Keyan), James Bland, Laura McNeill (son-in-law, Britt), and Timothy Bland. Earl was the beloved Granddad of Kameron Grant Shahdi, Heather McNeill, Bennett McNeill, Hannah McNeill, and Britton McNeill. He was preceded in death by his mother, Ada Rhea Myers Bland Philpot; stepfather, Francis “Dutchy” George Philpot; father, Earl Albert Bland; and sister, Kathleen Rhea Bland Biddle.

The family will receive friends from 5-7pm Thursday, September 3, 2015 at Nelsen Funeral Home, 3785 Strawberry Plains Road, Williamsburg, VA. A memorial service will take place on Friday, September 4, 2015 at 9am at the funeral home. Burial will be held at Quantico National Cemetery, Quantico, VA.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Myositis Association of America, 1737 King Street, Suite 600, Alexandria, VA 22314 (www.myositis.org). Online condolences may be shared at www.nelsencares.com.