Alma Elaine Bland

Elaine Hattiway Bland, 90, of Wilmington, North Carolina, peacefully entered her eternal home on January 9, 2026, at Novant New Hanover Hospital, where she was joyfully welcomed into the loving arms of her Savior, Jesus Christ.

Born on September 12, 1935, in Tabor City, NC, Elaine was the daughter of Oscar and Leola White Hattiway. A proud lifelong North Carolinian, she lived a life defined by kindness, quiet strength, and a faith that never wavered. Elaine had a gift for making people feel seen and cared for, and she shared that gift generously throughout her life.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her devoted husband of 68 years, Robert Earl Bland; and her beloved sons, Philip Leigh Bland and David Hattiway Bland. She was also welcomed home by her brother-in-law, Clinton David Harley.

Elaine’s life was a beautiful example of love in action. A 1953 graduate of Whiteville High School, she later fulfilled her calling to serve others by earning her associate degree in nursing from Cape Fear Community College in 1972. As a nurse, Elaine cared for her patients with compassion, patience, and grace, working alongside physicians in Wilmington and at both Cape Fear Hospital and New Hanover Memorial Hospital. To those she served, she was more than a nurse—she was a steady presence and a trusted comfort.

A woman of deep and abiding faith, Elaine lived each day with her heart centered on Christ, joyfully proclaiming Jesus as her Lord and Savior. She was an active and devoted member of Pine Valley Methodist Church, where her gentle spirit, servant’s heart, and warm smile were a blessing to many.

Elaine’s greatest joy was her family. She is survived by her children, Robert E. Bland, Jr., and wife Praneet Tukta of Ocala, Florida, and Donald E. Bland and wife Lisa of Wilmington, NC. Her legacy continues through her treasured grandchildren: Ashley Bland of Cornelius, NC; Megan Bland Peterson and husband Micah of Wilmington, NC; Micah Bland and girlfriend Destiny of Springfield, Oregon; Michael Bland and wife Joni of Cerro Gordo, NC; and Minnie Sakulsakpinit-Bland of San Antonio, TX. Her great-grandchildren—London and Luca Rountree of Cornelius, and Josiah, Elijah, and Leilani Peterson of Wilmington—brought her endless joy and pride.

She is also lovingly remembered by her sister, Ira Jean Hattiway Harley of Wilmington, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and “bonus grands,” all of whom were touched by her wisdom, warmth, and unwavering love.

Elaine’s life leaves a lasting imprint—one of compassion, service, faith, and devotion to family and community. Though she will be deeply missed, her legacy lives on in the countless lives she nurtured and the love she so freely gave.

A celebration of Elaine’s life will be held at Pine Valley Methodist Church, on Sunday the 18th of January 2026 at 2:00 PM with reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to Lower Cape Fear LifeCare or Pine Valley Methodist Church in her honor.