James "Jay" Bland

James David Bland, born in Marietta, Georgia. A champion wrestler at Wheeler High School, Jay graduated from Kennesaw State University in Accounting. He built a career as a Project Manager at PwC, while also contributing his expertise to MCI, YKK International, and Cox Communications. Beyond his professional achievements, Jay had a passion for a folk dance with rhythmic footwork known as Flatfoot or Buckdancing. He mastered the art of performing with Old-Time music, earning the title of National Champion. His talents began as a child dancing with the Little General Cloggers and as an adult, he danced on famous stages across the United States, including the Governor's Mansion in Tennessee and the Grand Ole Opry. His contributions to the arts were recognized in the acclaimed Foxfire Books, and he was featured in Cobb Life and Tennessee Crossroads. His presence on YouTube has garnered a following of over 1.2 million. Jay also dedicated 15 years to leading a Bible study for the blind and elderly in Atlanta, Georgia, and as an Ordained Minister, he taught for 10 years at Victory Fellowship. His father, James Lamar Bland, preceded him in death. Jay is survived by his wife, Vivian Perry Bland; his mother, Gail Casey Bland of Kennesaw, Georgia; his brother, Jeffrey Bland of Kennesaw; and his sister, Jennifer Salvemini and her husband, Nate Salvemini, of Kennesaw. Jay also leaves behind his beloved niece and nephews: Tess, Jayce, and Nico Salvemini of Kennesaw.

Funeral services will be at Winkenhofer Pine Ridge Funeral Home in Kennesaw, Georgia on February 7, 2026, at 2:00.

Contributions in Jay's memory can be made to Victory Fellowship Church, PO Box 627, Clayton, GA 30525.