Page 16 - Wayne County

Margie on their honeymoon to Amelia Island!

In the early years of their marriage, Jim focused on his career at Rayonier while Margie worked as the secretary at the Chamber of Commerce. Looking back, Margie credits that job with her getting to know the people of Jesup and falling in love with the town. Working to build a life together, they made a decision to save all the money Margie earned to purchase a house. She

began putting her $29 a week check in savings, enabling them eventually to buy that frst home. The couple also craved children and, after a few years, sought the help of a physician in Augusta. His advice: the couple must “hold hands more!” The prescription apparently worked: Nine months later, in December 1959, James Richard Bland III was born, the frst of three children. Joy Elouise Bland (Kenerly) was born in March 1961, and named for

her parents’ Sunday school class: Jesus frst, Others second and Yourself last. A younger brother joined them in August 1964, with the birth of David Clifford Bland.

As Jim progressed through the ranks at Rayonier, he was pleased to be a part of major changes, not only at the mill, but also in Jesup. In his 36 years with Rayonier, he witnessed its expansion from one mill to three, was part of its successful and peaceful racial

In retirement, Margie continues to paint, to support and enjoy her church and family, and to be an avid golfer while Jim collects art glass, hunts, fshes, is active in Kiwanis, and enjoys both hearing and telling a good story. Tey also enjoy spending time together and with their family at their second home which is afectionately known as “Te Blandation.”

14 Wayne county Magazine