Patsy Bland

Patsy Irene Bland, age 57, of Payne, OH went to be with her Lord and Savior at 4:45 AM on Friday, January 22, 2016 at her residence while surrounded by her loving family. She was born December 14, 1958 in Marion, IN to her parents, Peggy Maxine (Shepherd) and Harlod Delbert Lykins.

Patsy spent her whole life being dearly loved by the Father. It was that love that moved her to teach, preach, and sing about Jesus everywhere she went. Most recently, you could find her and her husband teaching Sunday school at Message Community Church in Ft. Wayne, IN. During her career, she worked as an interior decorator for Home Interiors and later as a wellness rep for Melaleuca. In addition to her ministry and career, she enjoyed sitting around campfires and riding her Harley. However, her favorite moments were found around a table with her parents and husband, her children and grandchildren. The table would be full of coffee mugs and playing cards; and the air would be filled with stories and laughter. These were her favorite moments.

Those left to cherish her memory are her husband and love of her life, Shawn Charles Bland of Payne, OH whom she married July 10, 2004; her children: Rachel (Matthew) Mitchell of Ft. Wayne, IN; Jesse (Liza) Rivera of Chicago, IL; Kayla Bland of Defiance, OH; mother, Peggy M. Lykins of Inverness, FL; brothers: Vernie K. (Norma) Lykins; Harold D. (Sherri) Lykins; John L. ( Lisa) Lykins, all of FL; and grandchildren: Micah & Avery Mitchell; Journey Rivera & 1 due in July.

She was preceded in death by her father.

Visitation will be from 5-8PM Wednesday, January 27, 2016 at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory, 722 S. Washington St. Van Wert, OH and again from 11AM-1PM Thursday January 28, 2016 at Family Christian Center 1834 E. Second St. Defiance OH. 43512. Funeral service will be at 1 PM Thursday, January 28, 2016 at Family Christian Center 1834 E. Second St. Defiance OH. 43512 with Pastor Tim Tracy officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to Samaritan's Purse Operation Christmas Child http://www.samaritanspurse.org.