Bernard was born July 27, 1944, to Samuel Blanton and Maudie Opal Mayo VanLandingham. He was a member of Shiloh Baptist Church where he served as a deacon. As a result of growing up in the Delta, Bernard loved the outdoors. He enjoyed cutting grass, gardening, and working with a shovel. Bernard also enjoyed tinkering in his shop; he could fix anything…ranging from a lawn mower or vacuum cleaner to a vehicle. He was also a talented carpenter building various structures around the house. The main focus of his life was his church, home, and family; especially his grandchildren whom he loved dearly and enjoyed following them in their various school activities as long as he was able to do so. His family and others looked to him for advice as he was wise, fair and honest.
Bernard is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Brenda Mitchell VanLandingham; and their children: Barry (Stacie) VanLandingham, Chris (Christi) VanLandingham, and Christal (Neil) Gregory, all of Louisville. One of his greatest joys was being “PeePaw” to his seven grandchildren: Sophie VanLandingham, Blaine VanLandingham, Nash VanLandingham, Ethan VanLandingham, Taylor Gregory, Laney Gregory, and Allye Kate Gregory. He is also survived by his sisters, Vernece Bruce, Joyce Griffin, and Brenda (Steve) Bailey; and his brother, Ronnie (Ethel) VanLandingham; as well as loving nieces, nephews, other family members, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, and two sisters, Perlene V. Tharp and Ruth V. Whitt.
Serving as pallbearers are Nash VanLandingham, Ethan VanLandingham, Blaine VanLandingham, Lester Griffin, Josh Mitchell, and Van Tharp. Honorary pallbearers are Anthony VanLandingham, Justin VanLandingham, Brian Rone, Zack Rone, and the men of Shiloh Baptist Church.
Memorials may be given to Shiloh Baptist Church Cemetery Fund, 455 Walter Burroughs Road, Louisville, MS 39339 or to the Alzheimer’s Association Mississippi Chapter online at alz.org/ms.
The VanLandingham family would like to thank his caregivers and Dr. Ard and the staff of Winston Medical Center for the excellent care provided to Bernard, and we appreciate the love and support from our Shiloh Baptist Church family over the last two years.
The VanLandingham family would like to thank his caregivers and Dr. Ard and the staff of Winston Medical Center for the excellent care provided to Bernard, and we appreciate the love and support from our Shiloh Baptist Church family over the last two years.
