Mrs. Mary Lucile Stringer Bland age 76 of Troy died January 12, 2013 at Troy Health and Rehab.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday, January 15, 2013 at 11:00 a.m. at Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church with the Reverend Larry G. Bland officiating. The burial will follow at New Mt. Zion Cemetery with Harrison Funeral Home directing.

Mrs. Bland was born on January 22, 1936, and was the oldest of eleven children. Mary accepted Jesus Christ at an early age and joined the Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church and attended the Old Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church of Goshen. In 1958 she joined the Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church in Troy, Alabama where she served as President of the missionary department, Senior Choir member, Deaconess department, an active Sunday School member, for many years, youth department advisor and Davis Choice Eastern Star Organization, Dorothy 12 organization of Pike County, Salvation Army board member, Pike County election team Southeast District Sunday School  and BTU member.

In June 22, 1958, Mary married Willie Lewis Bland Sr. To this union were four children born three sons and one daughter.

Matthew 23:11 says “But he that is greater among you shall be your servant.” Mary was a true example of a Servant. Early in her life she had a desire to become a nurse. As God’s plan would have it He sent her straight into the field to begin caring for her young brothers and sisters, her children and community children, the sick and anyone in need.

For over 70 years she was self employed as a Hairdresser in her home and seamstress and caregiver; she cared for young and old. If there were a family member, friend or one in the community in need she would be there to help in any way she could. Until her death she never ceased to serve others and fulfill her purpose from God.

She was preceded in death by her father JP Stringer Jr, her brother James Ed White, step father JD White Sr, and sister Pearl Mae White.

On January 12, 2013, Mary exchanged time for eternity. God in his divine wisdom, mercy and understanding called her from labor to reward.

Family members and friends who remain and who are blessed with precious memories are Husband: Lewis Bland Sr, Daughter: Gail (Rev. Earnest and Denzil Green), Sons Willie  Lewis Jr (Alex Bland), Rev Larry G (Carolyn) Bland, and Sharmon C (Shondra) Shontae Bland, all of Troy, Alabama. Six Grandchildren, Six great grandchildren, Mother Mossie Virginia. Six sisters; Jewel, Betty, Cora, Sylvia, Jennifer, Glennie. Five brothers: JD Jr, Ben Frank, Eddie Eugene White, tony and Charles Williams. Several adopted children all over the world, other nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.