James William Bruce Jr., 70, of Newbury, VT went home to be with the Lord on November 25, 2022. James was born June 12, 1952, in Halifax, VA to James W Bruce Sr. and Mildred Hargrove. His parents moved to Bridgeport, CT when he was a young boy. The grammar school James attended was Lincoln Grammar School, and in high school, James received an academic scholarship; after graduating from Harding High, he attended and graduated from Computer Processing Institute in East Hartford CT. James married Sheila Haskin on February 19th, 1972, a few years later he and his family moved to New London, CT. James obtained a welding certificate and worked as a welder at General Dynamics, electric boat division in Groton, CT.

James is survived by his wife, Sheila Bruce; his three children, Anita Mosley, Shaun Bruce, and Otoniel Mendoza. He has six grandchildren: Frederick Weaver II, Anthony Bruce, Lena Bruce, Caleb Bruce, Josiah Mosley, and Saniya Bruce. He also has two great grandchildren, Khione Bruce, and Aliyah Rose Bruce. James is also survived by two brothers, Lester Bruce, and Clifton Bruce, as well as several nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his brother Francis Bruce and his parents James and Mildred Bruce.

James Bruce was best known for his hearty laugh and infectious smile. He greeted everyone with a smile and a compliment, because, as he said, "People don't get enough compliments." It didn't matter how sick James got, he never complained. James would do his best to make sure people around him felt good about themselves and didn't mind telling them about how good God is. He would always say, "God's got me."

James' light and his legacy will continue with every seed of kindness and joy he planted. "Yes indeed", is the phrase that will live in our hearts forever. James you are loved and will be greatly missed, but we know you are singing, laughing, and smiling in heaven. We celebrate your life!