Ruth Marie Powell Bland was born on July 15, 1936, in Washington, DC. She was one of thirteen children born to the late Mary Edith and Oscar W. Powell. Marie worked for several government agencies, but she retired from the State Department as a conference manager. After she retired, Marie became a REALTOR in Montgomery County and a very good one. She practiced Real Estate for 17 years.

Marie graduated from Cardoza High School. Marie married Robert (Bob) Bland, on May 11, 1957, and they adopted one daughter. Marie was a member of The People’s Community Baptist Church, she sang with the PAVs choir, was a member of the Gad Tribal Family, and Generation One. She also danced with the Generettes. She loved her church and loved running various trips. She truly enjoyed traveling.

Marie loved her family dearly, but after losing all her siblings, she focused her attention on her nieces and nephews. She became the matriarch of the family. Marie enjoyed family time, whether it was putting on her own birthday celebrations, cookouts and holiday celebrations. For her, it didn’t have to be a holiday, just anytime to get the family together for a moment of fun and togetherness. 

Peacefully, Marie slipped away on March 7, 2026, at the age of 89 at home where she wanted to be. She was preceded in death by her parents and siblings.

Forever in our hearts, Marie is survived by her husband Robert (Bob) Bland of 68 years and their only child Robin Bland Lewis and a host of nieces and nephews.