William B Bruce

William (Billy) Branch Bruce, Born on May 18, 1925, in Des Moines, Iowa to his parents, the late Robert Bruce and Addie Mae Bruce.

Immediately following graduation from East High School, Billy enlisted in the Navy during World War II and was awarded the Victory Medal for his service to his country.

The United States Postal Service awarded Billy a 30-year service award for his diligence, faithfulness and hard work, but he made some time for a bit of fun. He loved playing with dogs, He enjoyed bowling, baking (his oatmeal cookies were the best), fishing, hunting, traveling, and even a little acting.  He was in a Cadillac commercial. Bruce had a loving and kind spirit--no doubt fueled by his love of God. He was a long-term member of Shiloh Baptist Church, where he served on the deacon board. In later years he became a member of Corinthian Baptist Church.  What he loved most was visiting with family and friends. He especially enjoyed telling stories about his life growing up. However, first and foremost, Billy lived his life loving God and his family. He was always patient, he offered wisdom if you asked for his advice, and his children said, "he always guided us in the right direction." He was a devoted father to all of his children and showed them each tremendous love. William (Billy) Branch Bruce, passed away on January 16, 2023, with family by his side.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his daughter, Carla Jean Hall (Harold) his sisters, Theola Bruce, Gladys Bruce, Winifred Sharp, Mary Jane Jones, Norma Jean Knox, and his brothers, Robert "Bobby" Bruce and Donald Bruce.

Billy is survived by the love of his life, Mary Catherine (Kay) Hill. They were an ideal match made in heaven 63 years ago when Mary Jane, Billy's sister, introduced them. His children also survived him: His daughters, Trudy Holt-Connell (Michael) of Lake Side, CA, Brenda Hanson, Pleasant Hill, IA, Anita Fleming (Honorary) Ankeny, IA, Beverly Reese (Charles) of Atlanta, GA, Cheryll Simmons-Fowler (Duane) Windsor Heights, IA and his son, Carl Burse, Jr., also of Des Moines, IA. 17 grandchildren, 47great-grandchildren 37great-great-grandchildren. He is also survived by siblings, Beverly Jackson of Minneapolis, MN, and Richard Bruce of Phoenix, AZ. Billy also leaves to mourn his death, a host of nieces and nephews.