Our Beloved Samuel Mercer Bland passed peacefully into God's kingdom on September 26th, 2023 at the age of 31.

Sam was born in Panama City, Florida on February 5th, 1992, to Samuel Keith Bland and Julie Cofer Franklin. From the time Sam was a little boy he exuded incredible kindness and a loving nature. He had the most amazing love for his family and has always enjoyed spending time with them.

Growing up Sam enjoyed playing sports and excelled at everything he tried. He gained the love and respect of his fellow players and coaches alike with his easy going nature and natural talent. Sam was a friend to everyone. He was magnetic with an infectious spirit and quick sense of humor.

Sam married his wife, Casidhe, of Lynn Haven, in April of 2014. They both desired to have a family and those dreams came true when their daughters Ava Evelyn Bland (5) and Lilah Grace Bland (2) were born in 2018 and 2021 respectively. Sam was the most incredible husband and father. He worked hard to provide his wife and daughters the best life possible and the love they share was inspiring.

In November of 2022, Sam was diagnosed with an aggressive terminal brain cancer. Despite the prognosis, he underwent numerous treatments and fought valiantly for precious time with his family. The time he fought for will forever be a gift to those that love him so dearly.

Sam is survived by his wife Casidhe, their two beautiful daughters, Ava and Lilah, his parents Keith Bland (Marlene) and Julie Franklin (Robbie), his siblings Felton (Myah), Nicolas (Samantha), Ileana, Garrison, and John Andrew, his Grandparents, Larry and Diane Floyd and Felton and Bebe Cofer, brother in law Alex Davila, and numerous loving aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, in laws, and precious friends.

A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, October 3, 2023 at 11 am in the Wilson Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Carl Fountain officiating. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Tuesday from 10-11 am prior to the service.