Mr. Richard Edwin Bland

Mr. Richard Edwin “Dicky” Bland, Jr., of Madison, Florida, passed away at his home on Thursday evening, March 30, 2023, at the age of 70. Dicky Bland was born, September 7, 1952, in Madison County Hospital, to Richard “Ed” and Margaret Louisa "Loiuse" Bland. He was a lifelong resident of Madison. After graduating from Madison County High School, he was drafted into the U.S. Army and was a Veteran of the Vietnam War. He was an avid hunter and was a member of Four Rivers Hunting Club. He loved dealing in exotic animals at what is now Gulf Coast Auctions. When you went by his house you would see all sorts of different animals, like Emus, Deer, Key Deer, Zebras, Peacocks, donkeys, long haired cows and his hunting dogs. Dicky never met a stranger. He would start up a conversation with anyone. And I mean anyone. When he came into a room you knew he was there. He had many different nick-names for many people. You could hear him call someone’s name across the room. Along with his loudness and being so well outspoken, he had a big heart. He put a smile on so many people. But he would tell you about yourself in a heartbeat. He was a trucker and a farmer. He will be missed by so many different people. There will be stories told about him for years to come, and he will be greatly missed. He is survived by his wife, Mary Ellen Bland. Daughter, Amber Wilhoit (Richie) of Gainesville, FL. Two step daughters Nicole Lamb (Lance) and Monica Shaw, both of Mayo, FL. Two brothers, Nat Bland and Julian Bland (Paul). Ten grandchildren, Judah Wilhoit, Ella Wilhoit, Maggie Wilhoit, Trevor Lamb (Abbi), Chloe Lamb, Brooke Lamb, Katie Ross (Casey), Amy Mercer (Kyle), Hannah Sullivan and Ella Sullivan. Three Great-grandchildren, Tucker Ross, Cash Ross and Emma Jean Sullivan. Two special nephews, James Bland (Elizabeth) and Daniel Bland (Kristen). A great niece, Avery Bland and great nephew, Brady Bland. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Jim Bland. There will be a Celebration of Life service on Monday, April 3, 2023 at 3:00pm. Visitation will be 1 hour before starting at 2:00pm. Beggs Funeral Home (850) 973-2258. Condolences may be shared on our website at beggsfuneral.com

Mr. Richard Edwin Bland

September 7, 1952 - March 30, 2023