Gregory Ardrain Bland

Gregory Ardrain Bland was born on July 18, 1949, to Glover George Bland and Cynthia Ann (Burrough) Bland in Coweta, Oklahoma. On June 26, 2026, in the stillness of the evening, he peacefully transitioned to eternity.

Known as “Greg”, Gregory attended Tulsa's McLain High School. In 1969, he was drafted into the United States Army and served in the Vietnam War. He was the recipient of several recognitions, including the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal, the Sharpshooter Badge M14, and the Sharpshooter Badge M16. In 1972, he was discharged with an honorable character of service. Upon discharge, he enjoyed employment at various companies, including Hudgens, Thompson, & Ball Architects.

Gregory later met Barbara Payne, and they had two beautiful daughters. Mena and Shawna, as he affectionately called them, became his pride and joy.

At a young age, Gregory accepted Christ at Jackson Grove Baptist Church in Coweta. He later moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma, where he united with St. Andrew Baptist Church and matured in the Baptist Training Union (BTU). Through health and illness, he shared his belief in Jesus Christ.   

Among many hobbies, Gregory enjoyed music, playing dominoes, and shooting pool. Towering 6’3” in his late teen years, he also had a passion for basketball. As a student at McLain, he was proud to represent the Scots on the court. More than anything, Gregory loved to spend time with family and friends. 

Gregory will be fondly remembered for his playful, loyal, and mischievous nature, as well as his proud sense of fashion. His relentless love and loyalty for family will never be forgotten.    

Gregory was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Glover Wardell Bland; and bonus-grandson, Kierstan Payne Jr. Those left to cherish lasting memories include his daughters, Shamena and Ta’Shawna; his grandchildren, Shamauria (Kobe), Tra’Myia, Billyaah, Emmanuel, So’Raya, Jaliyah, Tracy,  Za’Niyah, Bradly “Asa”, Da'Zhanae "Daisy", Ash'Meire, Barbie' Yahana, De’Coreyion, and Glory'lanna Adrianique; his great-grandchildren, Kobe, Kamauri, Caden, and Julius; his bonus-son, Kierstan “Cowboy” Payne; his sisters, JoVitha (Bland) Hawkins and Larcine Bland; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Gregory Ardrain Bland, please visit our floral store.