Tupelo – Howard Marion Bland died on Thursday, June 11, 2026, at the age of 93. He was born on September 17, 1932, to Tilmon M. Bland and Marvis Earnest Bland in Cumberland, Mississippi. Howard met the love of his life, Sandra Anderson Bland, in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, and the two were married on June 14, 1965. They shared 52 wonderful years together until Sandra’s passing in 2017. Howard spent his final days surrounded by compassion and comfort while in hospice care at Sanctuary Hospice House in Tupelo.

Howard served his country with honor as a veteran of the United States Army, proudly taking part in the Korean Conflict. Following his military service, he dedicated 36 years to a distinguished career as an IRS Auditing Agent, retiring with the respect of colleagues and the admiration of those who knew his strong work ethic and unwavering fairness. Howard found great joy in music, especially at the Sparta Opry House, where he loved listening to and performing country music. He was equally at peace with a fishing pole in hand or tending to his garden, nurturing life from the soil. Howard was a faithful member of West Main Church of Christ, where his quiet strength, humility, and devotion were evident to all. Above all, he cherished his family, who will forever remember his gentle spirit, warm smile, and unwavering love.

Howard is survived by his two children, Teresa Bland Smith and her husband, Danny, and Daniel H. Bland; five grandchildren, Jerrica, Brandon, Morgan, Hannah, and Haden; and six great‑grandchildren, Jesslyn, Laney, Derik, Nicholette, Eliana, and Riley. He is also remembered fondly by many nieces, nephews, and other special family members and friends.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Sandra Anderson Bland, and parents, Tilmon and Marvis Bland.

A private graveside service will be at Marvin Hill Cemetery in Cumberland, Mississippi. Pegues Funeral Directors have been entrusted with the care and arrangements for Howard.

Expressions of sympathy and fond memories may be left at www.PeguesFuneralHome.com.