Nelda Sunshine Bland, age 86 of Taylor, Arkansas, formerly of Shreveport, LA, passed away Monday January 18, 2016. Ms. Bland was born November 22, 1929 in Walker Creek, Arkansas to Leonard Hugh and Louise Bland. She enjoyed reading and keeping up with current events. Ms. Bland graduated from Walker Creek High School at the age of 16 with honors.

Ms. Bland was preceded in death by her parents; four brothers, Billy D. Bland, Franklin D. Bland, J.L. Bland, and Robbie "Bob" Bland; and one sister, Laverne Bland Cannon.

She is survived by her son, James Hillard Bland of Shreveport, LA; two sisters, Rebecca Walding of Franklin, TN, and Ann Lee and husband, James of Walker Creek; two brothers, Charles D. Bland and wife, Jeannie of Walker Creek, and James L. Bland and wife, Peggy of Taylor, AR; a special sister-in-law, Joan Bland who spent many hours with her during her last days; and a host of nieces and nephews.

The family would like to thank Summit Health Care and Promise Hospital for their care.

A visitation will be held from 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, January 20, 2016 at the Smith Funeral Home Chapel in Taylor, AR. Online registration is available at www.aosmithfuneralhome.com.