Genes Lee “Gene” Bland

Genes Lee “Gene” Bland, 78, of Eureka Springs, Arkansas, passed away peacefully on October 12, 2025, at Washington Regional Medical Center in Fayetteville, Arkansas surrounded by his loving family.

Born on November 30, 1946, in Berryville, Arkansas, Gene was the son of Vernon “Bud” and Pauline Bland. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, David Bland.

Gene is survived by his devoted wife of nearly 55 years, Sherry of Eureka Springs; his beloved son, Brandon and daughter-in-law Shalae; and cherished granddaughter, Kathryn all of Cabot, Arkansas.

A lifelong resident of Eureka Springs, Gene was a kind and generous man with a strong work ethic that was forged at a young age. His first job as a young boy was carrying groceries at Clark’s Market where he began earning the money that he carefully saved and would later buy his first car with. Gene was a good athlete and always enjoyed friendly competition. He was a basketball star at Eureka Springs High School where he earned the Most Valuable Player Award on the basketball court and where his natural charisma and leadership abilities enabled him to serve as the President of his Senior Class. His bravery and service to others was underscored when he volunteered for active duty service in the United States Marine Corps in 1966 where he served before being Honorably Discharged in 1968. Gene later earned his Bachelors of Science Degree in Public Administration from the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville and went on to build a long and very distinguished career in real estate, where his integrity, professionalism and service to others earned him lasting respect throughout Northwest Arkansas.

Beyond his career, Gene was a leader in the community and served in many community oriented groups including but not limited to, the Basin Spring Masonic Lodge #386, CS Bank Board of Directors, Carroll Boone Water District Board of Directors, American Legion, Elks Lodge, Kiwanis, Lions Club and he was a retired volunteer member of the Eureka Springs Fire Department.

Above all, Gene was a devoted husband, loving father and proud “Papa.” He was a caring friend, good neighbor, trusted advisor and his humility and love for his family and friends will always be remembered.

A memorial service in honor of Gene’s life will be held at 10:00 a.m. on October 17, 2025, at the First Assembly of God Church in Eureka Springs. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Gene’s memory to the Good Shepherd Humane Society of Eureka Springs. Arrangements are under the direction of Nelsons Funeral Service. Online condolences may be sent to nelsonfuneral.com.