Thomas Larry Bruce, 83, of Taylorville, died at 8:21 a.m. on Monday, November 6, 2023, at HSHS St. John’s Hospital in Springfield, joining his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He endured an extended time of Parkinson’s disease and other conditions. His family was by his side.
Mr. Bruce was born on October 4, 1940, in Eldorado, IL, the son of Thomas C. Bruce and Lorene (Fowler) Bruce. He graduated from high school in Ridgway, IL in 1958. Mr. Bruce joined the U. S. Air Force following high school in 1958 and served through 1962. After the Air Force, he attended classes at Millikin University. Mr. Bruce married Elizabeth M. Coleman in Shawneetown, IL. They later divorced.
He began his career in computers, working at the Staley Company in Decatur, IL. Later he accepted employment with the Sangamon Company/Service Advantage until his retirement in November 2002.
Mr. Bruce married Nancy Allen Kramer on July 17, 1982. After their retirement they moved to Florida for three years, returning to Taylorville to be with and enjoy the increasing number of grandchildren. He contributed to the community as a charter member of the Sertoma Club. Mr. Bruce was an active member of the Taylorville Evangelical Free Church and served in many offices in the church through the years. He enjoyed the music of the Gaither’s. Mr. Bruce also enjoyed golf, having had the opportunity to play at Pebble Beach with his son Keith, watching sports, and watching grandchildren’s activities. His primary focus was his faith and family.
He was preceded in death by his mother; father; stepfather, Hugh Downen; grandparents; and his aunts and uncles.
Mr. Bruce is survived by his wife of 41 years, Nancy; sons, Keith (Kim) Bruce of London, England, Eric (Melanie) Bruce of Grayslake, IL, and Dr. Michael (Nikki) Bruce of Rochester, IL; stepsons, Michael (Andrea) Kramer of Dallas, GA, William (Becky) Kramer of Palmer, IL, and Matthew Kramer of Teutopolis, IL; 9 grandchildren; 8 step-grandchildren; 3 great-grandchildren; brother, H. Leonard (Darlene) Bruce of Marion, IL; sister, Mary Ann Schutt of Sedona, AZ; and several nieces and nephews.
Visitation & Memorial Ceremony: The family will receive friends from 10:00-12:00 p.m. on Thursday, November 16, 2023, at the Evangelical Free Church, 319 S. Washington Street, Taylorville, IL 62568. The memorial ceremony will begin at 12:00 p.m. following the visitation, with Rev. Don Beetem officiating.
Mr. Bruce will be cremated, and private burial ceremonies will be held at a later date.
Memorial contributions may be made to: American Parkinson Disease Association, PO Box 61420, Staten Island, NY 10306.
The family has entrusted Shafer-Perfetti & Assalley Funeral Home in Taylorville with ceremonies.
Please visit www.assalleyfuneralhomes.com to share memories of Mr. Bruce, or to offer condolences to his family.
