Wiley Ray Bland

He was a Tarheel who loved Montana while still loving the Outer Banks of North Carolina.

The unbridled call of the Wild and adventure beckoned him to the West. His individual exploits were in concert with his love for the out of doors, He was passionate about climbing Alaska's Denali, tackling Montana’s Granite Peak's north face in winter, big game hunting, fishing Western rivers, hiking, and skiing challenging mountains.

Wiley was renowned for his affable and engaging nature. Family members often joked that "he could chat up a garbage can," a testament to his ability to connect with anyone. His ever present smile and cheerful demeanor earned him the affectionate nickname "Uncle Smiley" from his niece, a title he wore with pride.

Wiley's childhood was shaped by his family's career in the Coast Guard, which meant living in various locations, including Florida, Michigan and Puerto Rico: After his father's retirement, the family moved to Edward, North Carolina, a community with a population of just 75. There, Wiley completed his grade school and high school education. Alongside his younger sister he worked on the family's tobacco farm, contributed to their thriving seafood business, and eventually participated in owning and managing the Carolina oceanside restaurant in Nag's Head, North Carolina.

Wiley grew up in a close and loving family. As his brother Hank began first grade, he left to study Chemical Engineering at North Carolina State University. He was proud to have been the catcher for baseball's famous Roman Gabriel. Wiley completed his medical degree at Duke University Medical School, serving his internship there, as well. During this time, he married his Southern sweetheart, Patricia Ann, a schoolteacher, and together they had two sons, Wiley Jr. and Peter.

in service to his country, Wiley joined the Public Health Service, which led to a deployment on Wake Island and worked at Anchorage Alaska Native Hospital. Patricia and their sons joined him in Alaska. After his PHS service, Wiley joined a private medical practice in Seward, Alaska, and later returned to Duke University for a radiology residency, pursuing specialized training.

Wiley's adventurous journey continued with his second marriage to Marilyn beginning in Billings, Montana. From Wiley and Marilyn's marriage were born sons, Zachary and Jeffrey Seeking to be closer to extended family, they relocated to West Virginia and spent a year there. However, the practice was an unsuccessful match. They returned to Billings, where Wiley accepted a position at St. Vincent Hospital. He found fulfillment in his role there and continued working until his retirement. Wiley's last professional service was Chief of Radiology at the Billings Veterans Clinic, where he retired again after eight years.

Wiley deeply loved his four sons, modeling respect for hard work, family, nature, wildlife, healthy living, education and faith. He cherished his seven grandchildren - Leah and Casey (Wiley, Jr and Brandy), Charlie and Ryan (Peter and Kelli), Lily and Cole (Zach and Lisa) and Athena (Jeff and Tina) - and took pride in seeing them embrace the values he lived by.

Wiley's sons became a true "Band of Brothers," carrying forward his legacy of unity and love.

The four sons and families shared a love for outdoor experiences, spending time together along the Yellowstone River at "Fish Camp" where, at Papa's elbow, they learned to cast a fly and exploring the renowned North Dakota Pheasant Paradise. These family outings offered not only fun and excitement but also opportunities to learn important life lessons.

Papa emphasized the need to balance enjoyment with responsibility, teaching the boys about the value of hard work as together they planted and nurtured many rows of trees.

Throughout these adventures, friends and family joined in, helping to create countless cherished memories that enriched their lives.

The Bland family extends heartfelt gratitude to all the compassionate caregivers who brought dignity and comfort to his final days.

He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Marilyn, sister Deanna Pitts and family; sister-in-law Judith Martin and brother-in-law Dick (Becky) Martin. He was preceded in death by his brother Hank Burrus Bland; father Henry F. Bland; mother Grace (Burrus) Bland; father-in-law Ab Martin; and mother-in-law Mary Gertrude (Nesbit) Martin.

Wiley contributed generously to many charities. Memorial contributions can be made to National Wildlife Foundation, Upward Bound or to the charity of your choice.

His was a legacy of adventure, family love and dedication as a caring physician. There will be a Celebration of Life in the Spring.