Bruce never met a stranger, and he was never without words or a story. He loved striking up a conversation with anyone he met. His stories were told in great detail, each word carefully building on the previous. Bruce was a major Alabama football fan. Rarely was he seen not wearing something with Alabama on it. During football season, he could be heard yelling “ROLL TIDE” with every touchdown. Win or lose, he was proud of the Crimson Tide. He also relished camping trips with his wife and pup.

On March 24, 2024, Bruce died at St. Francis Hospital in Columbus, Georgia, with his family holding his hands. While he left us quickly, he left on his terms. If he were here now, he would say, “I did it my way!” Bruce realized before his family did that his time on this earth was coming to an end. He drew his family by his side to share his wishes and asked for comfort as he left. We are extremely sad to be without Bruce but are thankful that he is now at peace. We are confident that he is reunited with Daddy, Mama, and other family and friends. Bruce wanted to share, “Instead of grief, please show kindness and respect to a passing stranger. Be compassionate when interacting with others. You never know what others are going through. And remember to spread peace.”

Bruce was born February 6, 1962, to the late Donald and Mary Ellen Henderson. Bruce graduated from Central High School in 1980. He served as president of his junior and senior classes and was active in many clubs and athletics. Bruce was a proud alumnus of Central High School. After graduating from Central, he moved to Houston, Texas, where he worked in the oil industry both offshore and in production. After returning to Phenix City, he worked at the Continental Carbon Company before moving to the Kia West Point Assembly Plant, where he worked in a few production roles for 11 years.

In Texas, Bruce met the love of his life, Jane “Janie” Elizabeth Roberts. Bruce and Janie were married on May 3, 1986. Together, they raised one son, Andy. Bruce and Janie also were parents to several four-legged fur puppies over the years, most recently Bo, who is missing his Pop. Bruce is survived by his wife, Janie, of Smith Station, AL; one son and a daughter-in-law, Andy and Jennifer and two grandsons, Jett and Blaze, of Deltona, FL; his pup, Bo; his brother and brother-in-law, Brent and Calvin Houts of Decatur, GA; and sister-in-law, Connie Nobile and her husband Jim, and nephew, Sam of Powell, OH. The family would like to express special thanks and gratitude to the staff of CCU at St. Francis Hospital, especially Rebecca, Kristina, and Mitsy for their care and support. “We love you, Pop. You will be forever in our hearts.”

Per his request, no service will be held; instead, a ‘wear your favorite football jersey’ celebration will be held at a future date.
Bruce requested his obituary end with his words. “Peace be with y’all and ROW TIDE!”