Vanessa Daughtry Bland

Born on November 13, 1973, at Watts Hospital in Durham, Vanessa Daughtry Bland, 51, of Apex, NC, passed away peacefully on July 17, 2025, at UNC Hospital in Chapel Hill. Vanessa brought light and love into the lives of everyone who knew her, touching hearts with her warmth, strength, and grace.

She was preceded in death by her father, Bryant Wills. Vanessa is survived by her devoted husband of 29 years, John R. Bland, Sr.; her beloved sons, John R. Bland Jr. and wife Genesis of Trinity, NC, and Christian B. Bland of Apex, NC; her loving mother, Cathy Wills of Apex; her brother, Carson L. Daughtry and wife Kim of Wake Forest, NC; her beloved nephews Luke and Jake Daughtry; and her cherished grandchildren, Sophia Melody Bland and Elizabeth K. Bland, who brought her immeasurable joy.

Vanessa’s life radiated deep compassion, unwavering strength, and a quiet grace that uplifted everyone around her. She cherished her role as a wife, mother, grandmother, and daughter, pouring love into every moment she shared with her family.

A deeply musical soul, Vanessa found profound joy in melodies and harmonies, which echoed through her life and home. Her love for music was so meaningful that her granddaughter, Sophia Melody Bland, was given a middle name in honor of that passion—a lasting tribute to the rhythm Vanessa carried in her heart.

An artist at heart and an avid craft maker, Vanessa had a remarkable gift for turning simple things into lasting treasures. Her creations, woven with patience, care, and imagination will remain enduring symbols of her love. She found joy in animals, movies, and anything that brought her family together. Vanessa was deeply loved and lived with grace, filling her home with laughter, kindness, and the kind of unconditional love that formed the soul of her family’s memories.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Vanessa’s memory to the American Liver Foundation to support research and care for others facing similar challenges.

A visitation will be held Saturday, July 26, 2025, at Hudson Funeral Home from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. followed by a memorial service at 1 p.m. at Hudson Funeral Home Chapel.