Thomas James Bland Sr.

Tj was ordained as an Episcopal Deacon. He was adopted by the Late W.A and Kittie Bland. Tj joined the army and proudly served as a Green Beret in the Vietnam war. He also served as a captain and safety officer with the Battleground Volunteer Fire Department for 21 years. Tj also worked full time as corporate Vice President with Seawell Reality and Insurance company. He loved his work as a Deacon and as an insurance agent, giving 100% in everything he did.

During his life on earth, Tj loved all of the churches he served at as a Deacon . He also ran a food pantry for those in need and would often cook meals for the church members.

Tj spent his freetime hunting and fishing with his son Jim. These are memories that Jim treasures and will hold onto.

Tj is survived by his son Thomas J. Bland Jr "Jim" and daughter-in- love, Bertie Bland of Morganton, NC; step-son Jamie Boyd and girlfriend, Kim of Aurora, NY; and his sister, Judy Heggie and husband Alex Heggie of Chester, VA.

Tj was preceded in death by his wives, Barbara S. Bland "Bobbie" and Leslie R. Bland, a daughter, Baby girl Bland, His parents, William "Bill" A. Bland and Kittie Bland, His step mom, Muriel Bland, Mother & Father in law, Jack and Gladys Seawell, and Brothers, Steve & Bob Oeffinger.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, October 16th at 1pm at St. Andrew's Episcopal Church with inurnment to follow in the St. Andrew's Memorial Garden, 2105 W Market St., Greensboro NC, 27403.