John Curtis Bland, age 81, of New Haven, passed away on Nov. 13, 2024.
Born in Sanford, North Carolina on June 11, 1942, he was the son of the late Louise (Jackson) Moore and Robert Lee Moore.
John lived a full life depicted by dedication and service. John was a graduate of Wilbur Cross High School and went on to serve as an employee of The Connecticut Railroad, and American Linen in New Haven, Parks Sausage Company, West Haven, and served for many years as the Sexton for The Varick Memorial A.M.E. Zion Church until his illness would no longer enable him to serve. In addition to serving as the church’s sexton John was a member of the Board of Stewards and served on the Senior Usher Board.
John was the life of the party who loved sports, specifically the Minnesota Vikings, Fran Tarkenton, The New England Patriots, Tom Brady, The New York Giants, and New York Yankees. John also loved fishing, and quartet gospel music. His favorite group was the Canton Spirituals and their version of Hallelujah Square.
John Curtis Bland is survived by one son Rodney (Bridget) Williams, and one daughter, Tonesia (Rufus) Redding, one brother, The Reverend Dr. Anthony J, Davis, former A.M.E. Zion Church, Presiding Elder and the current President and CEO of Livingstone College, Salisbury North Carolina. Seven Grand Children Nicole, Moussa-JaQuan (Aubry), Joseph, Isaiah, Nile, Patrice and LaShonda. Five Great Grandchildren Joseph, Brandon, Ameera, Yasir and Emir.
He was predeceased by his mother Louise J. Moore, His Father, Robert Lee Moore. Three brothers, Otis Sasser, Reginald and Brenton Osborn.
Funeral services will be held on Thursday, Dec. 5, 11:00 a.m. at The Varick Memorial A.M.E. Zion Church 242 Dixwell Ave, New Haven CT. Friends and family are welcome to attend as we celebrate the life of John Curtis Bland.
The family will receive friends at 10:00 a.m. Services by Howard K. Hill Funeral Services, 1287 Chapel St., New Haven, CT 06511.
The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to all care givers at The Yale New Haven Hospital, St, Raphael Campus, and The Hamden Health Care Facility.
“I fought a good fight. I have Finished my Course. I have kept the faith.”