Deacon Ritchard Bland

Ritchard Bland was born July 3, 1940, in Greenwood, Mississippi to Willie Bland and Willie Edwards-Bland. He was the youngest of 12 children: seven brothers and four sisters. He passed away on Tuesday, August 30, 2022 at the age of 82 years. Ritchard arrived in Saginaw, Michigan in 1953. He attended Saginaw High School and later joined the U.S. Air Force in April 1961 and served four years. He married Jean Banks on August 13, 1961. He worked at Saginaw Steering Gear Div. General Motors Corp. as a Senior Lab Tester for 33 years, retiring in 1997. He was a faithful member of Zion Missionary Baptist Church in Saginaw, Michigan where he served under Pastor Rodrick A. Smith. He devoted his time by visiting many nursing homes, and hospitals praying and teaching the Word of Jesus Christ. Ritchard was also dedicated and helpful to those around him and in the community. Deacon Bland was a devoted husband and father to three children: Terence Bland, Tracie Collins, and Thomas Bland (Domenique). He was a cherished grandfather to Brittany McCaleb (Passion), Bryson Collins, Ashaunti Collins, Makyley Bland and Jada Bland and great-grandfather to one boy and six girls. He leaves behind many nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, a host of cousins and many friends. Ritchard is also survived by several brothers-in-law including a special brother-in-law, Theodore R. Banks and sisters-in-law. He was preceded in death by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Willie Bland; siblings, and a son-in-law, Robert Collins and a special sister-in-law, Alfreda Henry. Rest on faithful servant. You will be missed by all. The family wishes to extend special thanks to Pastor Rodrick A. Smith and the Zion Missionary Baptist Church family, William and Jackie Carstens, Dale and LouAnn Gerst, Fermer and Jackie Lewis, Dr. Rama Mulpuri & Staff, Dr. Ifikhar A. Khan & Staff and the Shelby Health and Rehabilitation Center & Staff. Family hour will take place at 10:00 a.m. Friday, September 9, 2022 at Evans & Browne's Funeral Home, 441 N. Jefferson Ave., Saginaw, MI 48607, with funeral service commencing at 11:00 a.m. Pastor Rodrick A. Smith will officiate with interment in Great Lakes National Cemetery, G-4200 Belford Rd., Holly, MI 48442. Visitation will take place 9:00 AM until the time of service.

Deacon Ritchard Bland

July 3, 1940 - August 30, 2022