Walter Edward Bland,'s Obituary
Our dear Walter Edward Bland, Jr. of Huntersville, NC. was born on April 12, 1931 in the Bronx, New York. He was the only child of the late Evelyn Fojan and Walter Bland, Sr. He died on Saturday, July 4, 2015. Walter was educated in the New York School System. He worked as an electrician for the New York and New Jersey Port Authority for a number of years. He enjoyed spending time with his family and friends, preaching, fishing, cooking and shopping. Walter also enjoyed opening up his home to extend hospitality.
Walter was introduced to Jehovah’s Witnesses in the Bronx, New York, and later accepted a study of the Bible with Harold Thompson in Queens, New York. As a result of what he learned from the Bible, Walter dedicated his life to Jehovah God and symbolized his dedication by water immersion on July 12, 1968.
On October 18, 1969, Walter married the love of his life, Sylvia Morgan. Their union was blessed with three sons. In 2002, Walter was blessed to be reunited with another son he had not seen in 44 years.
As one of Jehovah’s Witnesses, Walter enjoyed many privileges of service such as serving as a regular pioneer for approximately 12 years. This privilege allowed him to meet and help others to come to know about Jehovah God and the many blessings he has in store for those who love Him. One of the things Walter enjoyed talking about in particular was God’s promise of a new earth where sickness and death will be no more (Revelation 21:3-4). Walter also served as an elder for a number of years in Queens, New York.
In 2005 Walter and Sylvia moved to Huntersville, North Carolina, where they worshipped together in the Huntersville North Congregation. Although he experienced failing health in his later years, Walter was faithful until his death.
Walter is survived by his loving wife of 45 years, Sylvia Bland; his four sons – Charles Edward Bland, Anthony Walter Bland, Robert Randolph Bland (Leslie), Anthony Edward Thomas (Sylvia); seven grandchildren – Quamel Bland, Anthony (“Kwane”) Bland, Tiara Bland, Naeem Bland, James Thomas, Lindsay Thomas, Adia Chenoa Day; and a host of cousins and in-laws. He is also survived by a host of friends in Queens, New York, Huntersville, North Carolina and Costa Rica.
A viewing will be held from 12-5 PM at James Funeral Home, 10520 Arahova Dr., Huntersville on Thursday, July 9.
The service will be held at 2:00, Saturday, July 18 at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, McIlwaine Road, Huntersville.
James Funeral Home is serving the family. www.jamesfuneralhomeLKN.com
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