Mary A. Bland

Mary A. Bland, 98, of Champaign passed away Sunday morning, September 13, 2015 at Illini Heritage Rehab and Health Care in Champaign. Born April 17, 1917 on the family farm in rural Rossville, she was the daughter of Bert and Blanche (Simpson) Foster. She married James Bland, and he preceded her in death on December 3, 1989. Mary was an upholsterer, owning Bland's Upholstery with her husband for over 50 years. She later sold the business, but kept working into her 80's. Mary enjoyed crochet and needlework. She loved spending time on the farm with all of the animals. But most of all, she loved any time she was able to spend with her family. She will be dearly missed by all. Mary is survived by two daughters, Janet (Phil) Largent of Mahomet, and Julie (Guy) Davis of Dewey; many nieces and nephews, especially Pat (Jeanine) Bennett of Oakwood, and Michael (Corlis) Bennett of Oakwood; a brother, Bob (Euna) Foster of Rossville; a sister, Bette Alblinger of Oakwood; ten grandchildren; fourteen great grandchildren; and a daughter-in-law, Kay Holden. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; two sons, Tom Holden and Jerry Holden; one son in infancy; four brothers; and three sisters. A graveside service for Mary will be at 10:30 am Friday September 18, 2015 at Potomac Cemetery. Memorials may be made in her name to Illini Heritage Rehab and Health Care. Cremation has been entrusted to the care of Sunset Funeral Home, 710 N. Neil Street in Champaign.