Dedrick Andre Bland

Dedrick Andre Bland, 51, of New Albany, passed away on Thursday, January 8, 2026, leaving behind a legacy that is equal parts laughter, love, and unmistakable presence. If Dedrick walked into a room, you knew it—because the room instantly got louder, brighter, and a whole lot happier.  Dedrick proudly worked for many years as a Private Investigator and was the owner and operator of KIR Investigations—“Keeping It Real,” a motto he didn’t just use for business, but for life itself. A long-time member of First Trinity Missionary Baptist Church, Dedrick lived his faith through service, compassion, and a heart that truly cared for others.

A natural-born jokester and gifted storyteller, Dedrick never missed an opportunity to make someone laugh. He didn’t believe in strangers—only future friends. Whether he was telling a story (that may or may not have gotten a little bigger each time) or cracking a perfectly timed joke, Dedrick had a way of making everyone feel seen, welcome, and at ease.  Music was meant to be played as loudly as possible in Dedrick’s world—and it usually was. Even in his last days in the hospital, he had music blaring from his speaker to lift spirits and entertain the staff!  But, make no mistake, football was life. He was proudly the owner and operator of the Southern Indiana Elite Football League and poured his heart into the game. Whether cheering from the sidelines at Jeff High or holding court from his favorite chair in front of the big screen, Dedrick rooted fiercely for his teams and loved every second of it.

Known for his compassion and problem-solving spirit, Dedrick was the kind of man who would give you the shirt off his back—sometimes before you even realized you needed it. He wanted to take care of his friends, his neighbors, and anyone who crossed his path in need. His kindness was genuine, his generosity endless.  When summer rolled around, Dedrick could often be found fishing—soaking up the sun, smiling wide, and waiting patiently to reel in “the big one.” Those quiet moments by the water brought him peace and joy, a reflection of his deep appreciation for life.

Dedrick was a dedicated member of North Star Masonic Lodge #3 PHA F&AM in Jeffersonville and proudly served on the Board of Directors for Community Action Agency of Southern Indiana & as Clark County Democrat Precinct Chair.  He also devoted many years to peer counseling, always striving to uplift and support others through understanding and encouragement.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Juanita Bland; his beloved grandfather & father figure, Booker Bland; and his Aunt Brenda and Uncle George Bland.

Left to cherish his memory are his daughter, Brianna Marie Bland (Teddy D. Perkins); his son, Booker Bland; his sister, Nicole Thompson; his treasured grandchildren, Ameria Mack and Axel Perkins; his best friends for life and beyond, Don Lowe and January Luney & children;  Bailey Jones; Jesse Evans, Remi Evans, Geneci, Grady, Ronomy; Misty Estill and her children, Paige & CJ; and a wide circle of friends, cousins, and family members who will forever adore and honor his memory.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 1:00 PM on Monday, January 19, 2026, at Legacy Funeral Center, Scott Chapel (921 Main Street, Jeffersonville), officiated by Rev. Chris Thorton and Pastor Gena Harris. Friends may visit from 11:00 AM until service time on Monday at the funeral home.

Dedrick’s laughter, love, and larger-than-life spirit will echo on—in every shared story, every football cheer, every sunny day by the water. He could have easily allowed his health to keep him from finding joy and humor. However; he did not.  Dedrick always chose a smile! His life was truly Keeping It Real, and his memory will forever do the same.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Dedrick Andre Bland, please visit our floral store.