Reverend John B. Bland

Reverend John Benson Bland, the son of Homer Bland Sr. and Ina (Roundtree) Bland, was born April 15, 1957, in Bowling Green, Kentucky. John served and protected his country for 6 years active duty in the United States Army.

John confessed his hope in Christ and was baptized at an early age. He attended Bible College in 1984 where he received his ordination license under St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church. Later on, Rev. Bland remarried and was preordained for The Church of God In Christ preaching the gospel as he served under Pastor Ray D. Robinson until the time of his passing.

He moved from Bowling Green, Kentucky in 1984 to Indianapolis, Indiana where he found his passion for cooking. Rev. Bland worked for Jug’s Catering for 30 years and built many friendships and met many colleagues as a chef, which was more so like his second ministry. He enjoyed being able to prepare, cater, and have a good time around family and friends, filled with laughter and a good home cooked meal. His favorite event to cater was the Indy 500. He looked forward to it every year. 

Reverend John Benson Bland fought like the soldier he was for his country, the Lord, and his family and will forever be missed. He left our presence too soon, departing on Wednesday, April 3, 2024 at the age 66 years 11 months and 18 days. He was preceded in death by his father, Homer Bland Sr.; mother, Ina Bland; sister, Ina Louise Bland; and brother, James E. Bland.

He leaves to cherish his memory to his wife, Lenora Band, of 29 years with whom he shared a beautiful ministry in serving the Lord with. He is also survived by his sons: John Brandon Reynolds, Kyrus R. Browder, Byron C. Simmons, Fredrick Williams, Victor Keeylen and Bobby Cook; sisters: Sue Wilson (Phillip) of Atlanta, GA, Marsha Joy (James), Deborah Anthony and Felicia Bland (Daryl) of Bowling Green, Kentucky; brothers: Bobby Bland of Nashville, TN, Homer Bland and William Bland; dear aunts, Nellie R. Bryant and Laverne Anthony; and a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.