Clara T. Bland, 71, passed away peacfully at her home in Kents Store, Virginia. Clara Timberlake Bland, affectionately known to many as "Fat", laid down the burdens of this life on Saturday, May 12, 2007. God plucked a beautiful flower from His garden and carried her to her eternal home. She was the youngest daughter of the late Wesley and Amanda Timberlake. Her Celebration of Life Service will be held on Wednesday, May 16, 2007 at 1:00 p.m. at the County Line Baptist Church in Kents Store, VA.

During her lifetime, Clara's devotion and commitment to God was expressed through her dedication to the mission and ministries at the County Line Baptist Church. Participating in the Adult Sunday School Class, Senior Women's Usher Board, and her special work with the Gospel Chorus and Senior Choirs was her passion. There were very few services or church activities that she missed or failed to support. Only until recent months, was she unable to participate.

Clara's life was full and filled with a loving family and many friends. After years of domestic work with other families and their children, she transitioned her employment to the Louisa County School System, where she retired in May 2002, after 24 years of dedicated service. She enjoyed seeing many of her school children enter into adulthood. She also enjoyed visiting with former teachers and friends within the school system.

Her loving and devoted husband of 48 years, Willie, Jr., daughter and son-in-law, Tammy and Michael McGee, Big brother Leroy Timberlake and wife Josephine; loving sister and traveling side kick, Adele Quarles; spirited younger brother Lonnie Ray Dickerson and wife Annette; brother-in-law, Thomas Bland and four sisters-in-law, Annie Clark, Jeannette Bradshaw, Sara Mines and Alease Payne, Godchildren Jami Curry and John Daniels along with several aunts, nieces, nephews and numerous other loving family and friends, desire only that she is at peace with the Lord. She will be continually in our hearts forever.

We focus not on the reason why she is no longer with us, nor do we anguish over the pain she endured. We do, however, praise and thank God for His purpose and His will that allowed Clara to be a part of our lives for a season.

In Lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life of Louisa-Cancer Stoppers.