Visitation and Mass of Christian Burial - Bland Young

Bland Eugene Young, 61, passed away peacefully Sunday, November 24, 2024, in Homestead, Florida, after a cardiac event.

A funeral service will be held at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Madison, MS, on Saturday, December 7, 2024, at 11:00 am. There will be visitation at the church from 10:00 to 11:00. Burial is at Natchez Trace Funeral Home Memorial Park Cemetery in Madison, MS, following the funeral. 

Bland was born in Jackson, MS, but moved to Cleveland, MS, at age ten and always called the Delta home. He was the ringleader of his gang of friends growing up; he was always ready to lead the charge on any adventure. Bland was also a gifted athlete growing up, playing basketball, baseball, football, and running track in junior high and high school. His natural athleticism never left him: Even in his 50s with two bad knees, he was a formidable opponent on the pickleball court, always making it look easy.

No one made you laugh like Bland Young. His mischievous smile and dark, twinkling eyes made him a favorite with everyone. Throughout his life, people of all ages and stripes gravitated to his great sense of humor and natural charisma – there was always fun when Bland was around.

Bland earned a bachelor’s degree in Accounting from Mississippi State University in 1986 and became a CPA within the year. After almost two decades working as a corporate accountant in Dallas and Columbia, SC, in 2005 he started his own successful lawn irrigation business in Madison, MS:  Young Services. His business thrived as he loved working outdoors with his hands and was a shrewd manager.

Bland’s proudest accomplishment was being Vivian’s and Audrey’s father. He came to parenthood later than most yet threw himself into it wholeheartedly, grateful for the chance to experience and give a father’s love. Bland was a hands-on dad from day one. He took on his parenting role to Vivian and Audrey with a joy and patience that was amazing. His girls centered his life, his love for them immeasurable.  

Bland was preceded in death by his parents, Gene and Barbara Young of Cleveland, MS, and his grandparents, Smythe and Odell Young of Carthage, MS, and Burl and Tina Aultman of Seminary, MS. Bland is survived by his daughters Vivian and Audrey Young as well as his former wife Susan Harrington Young, all of Madison, MS. He is also survived by his sister, Renee Young O’Neill, of Oxford, MS, and Brad Young (Ashley) of Madison, MS, as well as nephews Lucas O’Neill, Griffin O’Neill, and Reeves Young, and niece Sadie Young. 

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate any donations to support Vivian’s and Audrey’s future education. Contributions can be made via the GoFundMe page established for this purpose: Fundraiser by Maggie Spence : Vivian and Audrey Future Education in Memory of Bland Young  Thank you for your kindness and support.