Ralph Douglas Bland

Ralph Douglas Bland, 96, Greenfield, went to be with his Lord and join his wonderful wife in heaven on February 18, 2026. Ralph was born in Blacksburg, Virginia, the son of Earl and Eirsel (Davis) Bland on August 7, 1929. Ralph married the love of his life, Ollie Virginia Fern, on July 1, 1950, and they spent 75 loving years together. Ralph was in the U.S. Army National Guard from 1954-1955.

Ralph was a member of Victory Independent Baptist Church for over 60 years. He served as a deacon and drove their church bus for over 20 years. Ralph never met a stranger. He was always happy to make conversation with everyone he met. He loved to ride his mobility scooter around Greenfield and meet new people as he called everyone his friend. Ralph always loved planting his flowers and garden every spring. He was always proud of his beautiful flowers and produce from his garden. He could tell you the name of almost any tree or flower. Ralph had several jobs in his life, with the last working for The City of Greenfield, retiring after 20+ years of service.

Ralph always enjoyed life. He was especially happy to go on trips with his family. Some of his most special trips were going to Jellystone Campground with his son Tim and his family as well as visiting Tim’s business, Tim’s Auto Repair. Ralph appreciated his son Jimmy who came to visit often and once a week was thoughtful to take his disposal-can to the curb to be picked up. He also loved his trips to Virigina with is grandson Jeff and his family. Also, other trips to Virigina with his daughters Eva, Deloress, and Donna and granddaughters Kendra and Izzy. He also very much enjoyed it when his grandson David took him to Rual King or spent time just riding in the countryside talking and enjoying the scenery. He also enjoyed time spent with grandson Christopher, especially when he took him riding around South Bend showing him all the sites. Ralph can also not forget when his other grandson Brian came visiting bringing him his favorite BBQ ribs. Ralph also enjoyed his daughter Donna coming by on her off mornings to cook his favorite breakfast and have coffee with him. A large thank you to granddaughter Kendra who was Ralph’s main caregiver and who did so much to help him.

Survivors include his children: Jimmy (Sue) Bland, Deloress (Danny) Simmons, Eva (Duane) Corley, Tim (Angie) Bland, and Donna Bland; grandchildren: Rhonda Bland, David Dixon, Cheri (Jeremy) Azevedo, Nikki Bland, Brian (Erin) Bland, Jeff (Tiffany) Dixon, Christopher (Carissa) Bland, Chantal (Jeremy) Williams, Kaylee Bland (John Botset), and Kendra Bland; 18 great-grandchildren; 8 great-great-grandchildren, with one on-the-way; sisters, Marie (Gordon) Barbour and AnnaLee (Walt) Woody; sister-in-law, Gloria Bland; brothers, Raymond (Michele) Bland, Marvin Bland, and Ronnie (Susan) Bland; and many nieces and nephews.

Ralph was preceded in death by his parents; beloved wife, Ollie Virginia Bland of 75 years; 2 brothers; 2 sisters; 2 brothers-in-law; and a sister-in-law.

The family wants to send a special thank you to Pastor John Nichols “ who visited dad every week and has been there for our entire family whenever he was needed. Pastor Nichols has been like a member of our family, and we can never thank him enough. We all love you and your family! “

Ralph loved his family and they loved him so very much. He will always be remembered and missed dearly.

Visitation will be on Monday, March 2, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Stillinger Family Funeral Home, 1780 West Main Street, Greenfield. The service will be held the following day, Tuesday, March 3, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., also at the funeral home, with Pastor John Nichols officiating. Burial will be in Park Cemetery with military rites afforded. Memorial contributions may be made to Victory Independent Baptist Church, Greenfield. If you would like to sign the online guest book or send condolences to the family, you may do so by visiting www.stillingerfamily.com