Tamar Ann Bland

Tamar Ann Lacy Bland passed away Monday, October 30, 2023. She was born September 28, 1955, to Bessie M. Duncan Lacy and Johnny Lacy in Gurdon, Arkansas. Tamar was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. Tamar married the love of her life, Marcus Bland, August 11, 1973. They were blessed with two sons, Marcus, Jr., and Nicholas. Tamar enjoyed music, singing, dancing, and decorating. She had a quick wit and amazing sense of humor. She learned ASL to teach Bible truths to the deaf and she was a retired administrative assistant. The most important day of Tamar’s life was December 1, 1974, when she was baptized as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses. Tamar dedicated her life to following the example of Jesus Christ and bringing glory to her Creator, Jehovah God. She spent countless hours putting the interests of others before her own. When asked what word people would use to describe her—love was the choice. She had the gift of making a person feel loved and the most important person to her at any given moment. She truly listened to others and told people what they needed to hear, not always what they wanted to hear. But everyone that listened to her wise words knew that they were based on the Bible and love. Tamar was truly a “woman who worked hard in the Lord.” (Romans 16:12) She was discerning, patient and always looked for ways to encourage others. Friends recall times that she sent them a text of a scripture or gave them a call that was just what they needed. Because of her persistent efforts in the ministry and determination to see the good and potential in others, she helped many learn Bible truths and progress to dedication and baptism. She also helped others that had become discouraged and weak to regain their faith and become active servants of Jehovah again. Tamar’s hugs were something everyone looked forward to at the meetings. She was a spiritual mentor and mother to numerous individuals even calling them her ‘sons’ or ‘daughters.’ One of the happiest days of her life was Sunday, October 20, 2021, when Marcus symbolized his dedication to Jehovah in baptism. As a devoted grandmother, Tamar made sure to set aside as much time as possible for her and Marcus to spend time with each grandchild individually. She would mark days on her calendar that belonged to them. She also would make them their favorite treats. One granddaughter relates how Tamar made muffins on Sunday to send with her for the school week. Tamar suffered from severe health problems later in life but even with those difficulties, she maintained a grace, and showed joy and endurance in her worship, because of her hope that one day God “will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore,” (Revelation 21:4). Even though it took many hours to prepare for spiritual activities and the ministry, Tamar was determined with the help of her ‘rock’ Marcus, to maintain her spiritual routine. She and Marcus were often the first people at the congregation meetings. Her example of coming back to meetings and the ministry in person as soon as possible after covid restrictions was an encouragement to all. We look forward to seeing Tamar resurrected to the paradise on earth that God promises. We cannot wait to hug her again. Tamar was preceded in death by her parents, her son, Marcus Jr., and brothers, Derwin and Lonnie. Left to cherish her memories are her devoted husband, Marcus, son Nicholas, brother Johnny Lacy (Connie) , Calvin Lacy (Fran), Michael Lacy (Mindy), Corey Lacy (Angela), Johnnie Lacy (Stella), and David Lacy (Yvette); sister Joyce Duncan; daughter in law, Kristy, grandchildren Deshawn, Marcus Bland III, Alexis, Kelen, Raven, Anxious, Nicholas Jr., and Quinton, great grandchildren Madden, Kyler, Brylee, Kamari, Kai, and a huge spiritual family. The memorial service for Tamar will be held at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, Saturday, November 11, 11:00 am, 225 Marion Anderson Road, Hot Springs, AR 71913 A reception for the family will be held immediately afterwards at 202 Taylor Place, Hot Springs, AR 71901.

Tamar Ann Bland

September 28, 1955 - October 30, 2023