Novia Bland

Today we celebrate the homegoing of Mrs. Novia (McNeal) Bland who departed this earthly life on April 14, 2024 in her home to   enter an eternal life with God Our Father in Heaven. Novia was born on June 5, 1941 in Florence, South Carolina to Chester and Arizona (Baker) McNeal.

She spent her early years in the Meadow Prong Community, where she remained until graduating from Wilson High School Class of 1959. Novia was a true Wilson High School Tiger. She enjoyed attending basketball games and homecoming festivities. Her love for Dear Old Wilson High was relentless.

Novia was an active member of Majority Baptist Church until her health declined. She was known for her affectionate smile and a natural gift to sing which captivated all who had the privilege to     listen. Her passion was caring for and nurturing children who continue to grow and develop in her honor. Her heart was as vast as the sky, overflowing with boundless compassion for all beings. She was a loving and devoted mother and grandmother. Novia’s loving and caring spirit uplifted everyone she met. She was one of God's precious gifts to the world.

Novia was an avid fan of basketball, particularly the Los Angeles Lakers - idolizing the late, great, legend Kobe Bryant. Novia had a green thumb, nurturing a variety of houseplants and tending      to her iconic flower beds. If you happened to see Novia, you could expect to be greeted by her infectious smile and ability to effortlessly combine style and sophistication. She earned many awards and accolades for her achievements and unwavering dedication. She believed in the importance of relationships, empathy, and compassion.

Novia was united in holy matrimony to Horace Bland.

She was preceded in death by her husband, parents and brother Arnold McNeal.

Left to cherish her loving memories are her daughters Sandra (Roy) Bland-Speights of Florence, SC and Pamela (Sylvester) Bland-Hudson of Indian Trail, NC; two granddaughters Yvonda Bland of Charlotte, NC and Morghan Bostick of Indian Trail, NC; four sisters Gertrude (Mason) Williams, Bertha Rivera, Juanita McDavid, Mildred Bush all of New York; four brothers Rafiq (Tauheedah) Shaheed, Lorenzo (Randy) McNeal, Allen McNeal, Eugene (Gene) McNeal, all of New York; two sisters-in-law Reverend Laura (Clarence) Preston and Ruth (Ruby) Shula; godchildren Stevens Bryant and Alliana McMillan; many special nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

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