Leola Wanona Bland, 78, of the Black Jack community, passed on to her eternal home on Dec. 12, 2009, in her home. She was surrounded by the family who lovingly cared for her the past four years. The oldest daughter of Floyd (Bike) and Ina Messick, she was born on Sept. 18, 1931.
On April 2, 1953, she was united in marriage to Junior Bland and moved to the family farm in Black Jack where she remained until her death. To this union twin daughters were born, Kathy Dianne and Karen Deanne.
Leola was an avid businesswoman and loved working with people. She worked locally at Sibley & Thatch Supermarket, First Finance Co. and Tri County State Bank until her retirement. Shortly after retirement, she was elected Commissioner of St. Clair County—the first woman to hold that position. She served in that capacity for four years.
Leola’s love for God and family was indescribable. She was saved and sanctified in the Black Jack Church of God (Holiness) where she attended faithfully until health no longer permitted.
Leola taught by example—demanding respect, punctuality and good work ethics. She will be remembered as a wonderful mother, a godly example and a friend to all.
Preceding her in death were her parents and a great-nephew, Dustin Bland.
Survivors include: her husband, Junior, of the home; her daughters, Kathy and Karen Davis; her sons-in-law Jim and Nolan Davis; and three granddaughters - Britni, Tessa and Brooke Davis; three sisters - Leona Bland and Kay Harper - El Dorado Springs, and Fay Sayre - Kansas City.
Services were held on Tuesday, Dec. 15, in the El Dorado Springs Church of God (Holiness) with Rev. Joe Dodson and Rev. Brent Bland officiating. Music was provided by Bob and Rowena Clouse. Interment followed in Love Cemetery under the direction of Bland-Hackleman Funeral Home.
Pallbearers were - Kirk Bland, Travis Bland, Trent Bland, Quinton Bland, David Henley and Wayne Worthington.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Black Jack Church Youth Center.
