Gerald “Keith” Bland, 59, of Hahira, Georgia, passed away peacefully on January 20, 2026. Born in Valdosta and raised in Clyattville, Keith was the beloved son of Raymond and Kathryn Bland.

A gifted athlete from a young age, Keith excelled in football during his youth and later found his passion in motocross racing. His talent quickly earned him a sponsorship. Tragically, at 19, a severe accident during his first professional race left him a quadriplegic, forever altering the course of his life.

Despite this life-changing event, Keith’s spirit and determination shone through. With the loving care of his parents and the support of his dedicated nurses, Keith embraced independence by living on his own in Hahira. He remained an ardent motocross advocate and fan, and he found joy in following NASCAR—especially years of rooting for his favorite driver, Jeff Gordon.

Keith is survived by his father, Raymond Bland (Mary) of Lake Park, Georgia, his sister, Marcie Bland-Boughman (Tracy) of Lenoir, North Carolina, and neices and nephews Suthern Smith, Brody Smith, and Raymi Boughman. He is also survived by his birth father, Gerald Brogdon (Claudia) of Live Oak and sisters Geri Evans (Jody) of Valdosta and Dana Weeks (Wade) of Valdosta and special aunt Dana (Charles) Herndon, cousin Lisa Smith of Hahira, stepfather Jack Priddy, and caretakers Pam, Johnny, and Valerie. He was preceded in death by his sister Michelle Smith of Clyattville, Georgia; his mother, Kathryn Priddy of Hahira; and his grandparents Ruben and Zona Mae Bland and Oliver and Elizabeth Colvin.

The family will gather to remember Keith from 3-5pm on Thursday, January 22, 2026 at Carson McLane Funeral Home. Friends may express their condolences at www.mclanecares.comKeith’s courage, passion for racing, and unwavering spirit touched the lives of all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.