William “Billy” Bland, 81, of West Columbia, South Carolina, passed away July 30, 2024 at Lexington Hospice House in Lexington, South Carolina.  He was born on December 26, 1942 to Ralph and Elizabeth Whittle Bland.

Billy is survived by his wife, Lynette Rish Bland, a son David William Bland, daughter-in-law Mary Joyce Bland, and three grandchildren, Colin Bland and his Husband (Anthony), Kyle Bland, and Karis Bland. 

He also has two sisters, Sharon Biga, and Julianna (Cookie) Hyatt (David). There are also three nephews, Jack Jackson (Delores), Bland Jackson (Natalia), Elijah Hyatt (Maggie) and four nieces, Kasey Biga Johnson (Mark), Nancy Bland Shealy (Jason), Danielle Bland, Jessica Lemere (Michael),

He was preceded in death by his father Ralph Bland, his mother Elizabeth Whittle Bland, and his brother Danny Bland (Patty).

Billy was a programmer for The South Carolina Department of Revenue, where after 30 plus years he retired.  He was an avid photographer, and he also loved college football, Gamecocks Women’s Basketball, and hunting sharks’ teeth at the beach.

After retirement he spent his time showing his love for his family. He also helped start a new small church, New Hope Christian Fellowship. He Loved the Lord, the church, and the people in it. 

The family will receive friends at Thompson Funeral Home in Lexington, SC, on August 10, 2024 from 11AM-12PM.  A memorial service will follow at 12PM with Rev. Brenda Kneece and Rev. Jack Younts officiating. Memorials may be made to New Hope Christian Fellowship, 1712 Mobile Ave. West Columbia, SC 29169.