Richard Bruce Obituary

Crossing the Bar

Sunset and evening star,
And one clear call for me!
And may there be no moaning of the bar,
When I put out to sea,

But such a tide as moving seems asleep,
Too full for sound and foam,
When that which drew from out the boundless deep
Turns again home.

Twilight and evening bell,
And after that the dark!
And may there be no sadness of farewell,
When I embark;

For tho' from out our bourne of Time and Place
The flood may bear me far,
I hope to see my Pilot face to face
When I have crost the bar.

By Alfred, Lord Tennyson
The Poetry Foundation

Dear Anna, Richard Jr. and Candance - It's all been said in this wonderfully long list of condolences and remembrances - including LET'S GET READY TO RUMBLE!! Please add my thoughts and prayers to all the others, and be assured Richard will be in my heart and on my mind at the Toy Run this and every year from now on.
Whether it was the Toy Run, the Heritage Motorcycle Rally and that dang limo, a poker run, charity benefit... whatever, Richard always seemed to be there and generously buying strings of 55/50 tickets for Anna to drape around her neck. Almost always with a smile on his face, and with a smile for you when you needed it. Richard was a family man, a good businessman and one concerned about his fellow man. We should be more like him. I will miss him deeply.

(Cycle Santa)

I had the pleasure of meeting Richard at my brothers funeral (Billy Self). He was a wonderful man.You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.

Richard and I were friends for 20+ years and he was a GREAT friend. Never met a stranger and a friend to all. I called him "King Richard" to my family because he was just that- always in charge and had the best of everything. He helped me get my car and bike "fast" like he would his own. I have alot of great memories and will miss him terribly. Anna,Little Richard & Candace, my thoughts & prayers are with you all.

Date: Aug 10, 2008
Subject: This goes out to the Richard Bruce Family.......God Bless!!!
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...

but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.


I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.


Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.

Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.


Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.


That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,

God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you.
"
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.


As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.


I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.


There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man.
"
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.


And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.


And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.


God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.

When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years

because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.


But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.


Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.

I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.


But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.


But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.


I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.

There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;

but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.


It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...

that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.

If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,

then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain.
"

And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,

knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.

So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,

just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.


When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;

I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.

And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,

remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.


~Author~

Ruth Ann Mahaffey

©Copyright 1998


Candace.............I hope you enjoy this poem it is so beautiful and fits the occassion..............I love you girl and I am just a phone call away!!! Also make sure you take care of Anna............your daddy really loved her and she is gonna need you!!!! Love Always,Selina(Fighting Cancer One Day At A Time!!)

I know we haven't seen any of the family in a long time , and we want you to know how much we enjoyed our time spent together at IHRA races. Our son , Ron, remembers the week he stayed with Little Richard helping his dad move to his new shop. Our prayers are with you.

To My Friend...

Ride On,
Go Fast,
God Needs A Wrench Turned...

If I had to describe my friend …
I would say he had both feet on the accelerator of life … and he never knew there was a brake for emergencies.

Years ago, I opened a Restaurant near Richard’s business. At lunch, I would watch as Richard would walk up to the window and order … the biggest burger … the largest fries … and a super large drink.

That was Richard … he liked the biggest.

And not just food … Richard demanded a large bite of life, too!

He also wanted the biggest, best toys available.

He demanded them … he used them … he enjoyed them … and he was always sharing them. As you all know, Richard had the fastest, baddest race boat in the harbor. This was Richards’s way. From the day he got the boat he kept wanting me to go out and experience it with him. Sadly, after much discussion with homeland security, the airport and the airlines, I was never able to get flight insurance to cover me before I went on the boat with him.

Richard always shared with friends … and everyone he met was a friend. Richard could walk into a room of 20 people and walk out with 20 friends.

Today we remember some fun times with Richard … and tomorrow he will become some of our most cherished memories.

Richard and I often shared burgers and many large drinks …
But I enjoyed Richard’s company in quiet times, too … often after work we celebrated the day with a margarita or two … ok.. maybe three… well, you know Richard.

It was during these quiet times I learned a few things about friends.
If you needed a shirt … Richard would give you his … he never asked why or when he’d get it back.

If Richard wasn’t working for someone else, he was working for himself. He didn’t want to waste even a moment of time.

Asking for help brought an automatic “yes” from Richard. There was never a condition … or wiggle out question. Richard was committed … if you needed help … then help was what you were going to get … His focus was on you … his friend, and taking care of your problem.

Today Richard would be so very proud of his family. He would rejoice in their obvious love and respect. He would fully appreciate the way his family has come together to take care of him and each other.

On those margarita nights when Richard would park with life in neutral, we talked about cars … work … boats … and life. We are about the same age … but he taught me much about life.
He loved living it. He shared his soul with everyone who knew him. Life … as big as it could get … as fast as it could go … is the way Richard liked it.

In recent months, he was the most calm I’d ever seen.
He was becoming a Mason … his last big venture in life. As always, he went after this venture with all his energy and enthusiasm – the harder he worked toward it – the more determined he became – the harder he worked – the calmer he became also.
There was a notable difference in Richard since he began this endeavor. A period of peace… in the last part of his life. He found the Mason’s and peace found Richard.

Today… we are saying goodbye to an old friend … and tomorrow’s memories will fill this place … in our hearts.

Goodbye My Friend

SURELY KNOWN AND LOVED BY MANY. INTELLIGENT,RESPECTED AND SUCCESSFUL ARE CERTAINLY JUST A FEW IF HIS ATTRIBUTES WITH FLARE. BEST WISHES FOR HIS FAMILY. GOD BLESS

To Anna and all the Bruce Family, we are sadden by your loss, Richard was a great man, no matter where we seen him, he was always smiling or making you laugh, take comfort in knowing that his smile is even bigger now and he is looking down on you all. You are all in our prayers, Take Care and God Bless You.
Sandy and Billy Trivett

I couldn't believe the news when I heard. I am here for any of you day or night please call Black's & I'll give you my phone #. (Trust me there will be plenty of restless nights). Richard & Anna were supportive to my family when we lost my niece in 2004.Just know that I will be here for you. God Bless You & Love,Hazel Lee

Richard was larger than life and lived it to the fullest. He lived several lifetimes in his very short one. I'm sure he had no regrets of things left undone. The memories our two families share of drag racing, Richard Sr in Bobby's wedding, Lil Richard in Tony's wedding...are forever memories. My Dad thought a great deal of Richard, and I'm sure they are up there together, doing burnouts, tossing one back and raising cain. No words can help you at this time, but rest assured you are in our hearts and prayers...

To the Bruce family,
Im keepin yall in my prayers every night for the loss of yalls father and i hope the best for yall and your father served his purpose on this earth as a good father figure, friend to many, greatest mechanic in summerville,sc! He's tuning things up in heaven right now! lol God bless yall!

We would like to express our sorrow and our sympathy for loosing such a great man and friend. So many memories rush through the mind, they all seem to end with Richard smiling (telling a joke). He will be missed but never forgotten. He has left an impression with all that have meet him, shared his knowledge, and showed us friendship surpassed by none.
With all our blessings and prayers.

ok guys i just want to speak on behalf of the family, thank all of yall for the prayers and wishes. please remember to keep your head up and a smile on your face... thats what daddy would of wanted from all of us!
i love ya'll!
<3 candace
xoxo

Bruce Family, I'm truly sorry for your loss. Take care of each other and be there for each other. Richard was a good caring man. Heaven as gained a very good man and mechanic.

Words cannot express the special person that Richard has been to me and my family. I remember times during my life where we spent practically every day and weekends together. There were also times during our lives journey where we were apart, but there was always a comfort that if you needed him he would be right there. We were like family, like a brother - a best friend. I could always turn to him for advice or a laugh to cheer me. He was a great support person and could fix anything or handle any problem. You always felt safe when you were with Richard. We grew up together and our children grew up together and I will never forget those good times. I have many fond memories and stories of racing, boating, vacation trips, or just hanging out. His smile and humor was infectious! I feel confident that his spirit lives on in each of us and look forward to the day when I see him again. It gives me comfort to know that he watches over us. He was truly a blessing to humanity and he will always hold a special place in my heart.
My love and prayers go out to all of the family during this time of loss - Lil Richard, Candace, Linda & Vince, Robin, Chaz & Brittney, Bob & family, Anna & Kerri. Thank you all for being part of my life - I will be here for you however you may need.

God bless,
Gina

May the Lord be with each of you during this time. You are in our thoughts and prayers.

I send condolences to Anna, Candace, Kerri, Richard Jr. and all of Richards family. It was a great honor to have known Richard. He was one of a kind. Sincerly, Gary (Mikes uncle)

OUR DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO THE BRUCE FAMILY. RICHARD WILL BE MISSED VERY MUCH. HE COULD ALWAYS PUT A BIG SMILE ON ANYONES FACE. HE WAS A GREAT GUY.

Richard was a great person and friend. Always full of energy and bull ... He would do anything in the world for you. He let us borrow his motorhome, trailer, and racecar for a week to go to a drag race.My car broke, so I could stay in the points system. This is just a drop in the bucket of things he has done for us. Friends like this are hard to find .WE WILL MISS HIM VERY MUCH !!! KICK BOOTY

Richard Jr. and Candace,

I am so sorry for the loss of your father. I will enjoy the memories I had hanging out at the house with all of you. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.

My heart goes out to all his family and friends to whom will miss him dearly. Ya"ll will be in my thoughts and prayers.

My family would like to extend our prayers and wishes to Richards family. We grew up with his children in Clemson Terrace and have fun memories of him and his children. Richard was a very ambitious person and a very good hearted person. He will be missed

Our hearts and prayers go out to the Bruce family.

Blessings,

Jason & Angela Coffey

My deepest condolences goes out to the family and friends. He will be missed but not forgotten. You will always live in our hearts and prayers.

My thoughts and prayer goes out to his family..

Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Our hearts go out to you at this time and in the days ahead.

The family will be in our prayers. God Bless you all.

With our love and deepest sympathy. He was like a son.
Mama Geri & Poppa John

To the whole Bruce clan : Hang on to your memories of good times, talk about Richard often and never forget how loved all of you were by him. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Richard was a long time friend. He will be sadley missed. Our condolences go out to the family.

My deepest sympathy goes out to all that knew Richard. He has been a part of my life for a very long time. There are lots of memories I have of him and they all ended in a good time and smiles. The biggest smiles I had were with my son Bailey, his grandson. We will miss your smiling face "Papa Bruce"!
Love Always Ashley and Bailey

My deepest condolences to the Bruce family and all his friends,,he was a brother and a friend..and he will be missed,,God bless

My deepest thoughts and prayers are with all of the family.Richard was a very good friend and "brother". He has taught myself and many others a lot of lessons in life such as morals,ethics and most of all how to help people and have fun doing it.He will be dearly missed but NEVER forgotten.My heartfelt love goes out to the family and friends.

Richard was always so full of life and always being, well just Richard. Thinking of him like that brings a smile to my face. I remember when there was a time when it was hard for me to smile and Richard was right there with his support even though he barely knew me. I was saddened to hear of his passing, his presence on earth will be greatly missed by all who knew him. My thoughts and prayers are with his family. Take care of him God he is truely one of your special children.

Richard was a very unique individual. Friends for many years, not much contact since he left drag racing, but one I will never forget. We had good times. He is going to missed by many, including us. Our thoughts and prayers go out to this family.

The Good lord must of been in dire need of a great Mechanic" cause Richard would of never made an exit like this. (Knowingly.)What can you say about a man that had it all? Great Family, Friends and enough ambition to keep it all together. He will be sadly missed. Richard had a true gift he could always walk into a room full of stranger's; and leave with a room full of Friends. It has truly been an Honor to have been his Friend, and Masonic Brother. God Bless all the loved ones left behind, Find your strength in the day's to come. Anna, Richard, Candace & Carrie. Find a place in your heart and tuck his memory and he will alway's be there, Hope this brings you peace. Love; Andy & Sherry Collins & Family.

Me and My daughter are sad to hear of Richard's passing! Richard and I went way back ....and partied on many occasions. Our condolences to his family ! He'll forever remain a friend to me!

My sympathy is with you all at this time. As a customer, business acquantance, and a friend, I was always knocked out by Richards totally positive outlook. May we all enjoy our time as i know he did.

Richard and I became family in the early 80's. He was always WIDE OPEN, and lived everyday to the fullest. Part of me went with him and I will always have him in my heart until we meet again.

Much love and sympathy to the family.We only had the chance to go boating with you guys a few times but each time was a blast!Richard knew his work and our boat hasn't ran this great since we've owned it.You will be missed.

My condolences, thoughts and prayers to you Anna, Little Richard, Robin and the Bruce Family. Richard was a great person and friend. May you find comfort in the your great memories.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to Richards family and staff in this time of sorrow and disbelief. Richard will truly be missed.

Richard could always make you laugh. I havent seen him in years until last April in Charlotte. It was good to see him. He will be missed. Our prayers are with his family during this difficult time.

Richard Bruce was a unique and wonderful man. He had the biggest heart ever and was someone that you know you could count on for anything. He knew how to party and have a good time, but also knew when it was time to be serious and understanding. My sympathies go out to Anna, Little Richard, Candace, and the rest of his family. If you need anything at all, don't hesitate to give me a shout! Love you guys so much! Love and miss you Richard!

Richard had the biggest heart. He was always the life of the party. He was also the best friend a girl with car problems ever had. My heart is broken.

To all Richard's family & friends, I only knew Richard as our (business) neighbor across the street and through ABATE. He was here at Pulliam talking to my boss a couple of weeks ago and his boisterous laugh generated through our offices and was contagious. Thank you Richard for the laughs and smiles...!! You will be remembered by many!! See you on the other side someday. Debbie @ Pulliam

Debbie

We were very saddened to hear of Richard's passing. Our thoughts and prayers will be with his family during the difficult days ahead.

Richard (Jr.) if there is anything at all we can do to help, Wild Bill can reach us.

To the family of Richard Bruce & the Staff at Richard's Auto we send our deepest sympathy to each of you. Richard was an outstanding individual and great business man. He will be missed by many.

You got that right Candace..LETS GET READY TO RUMBLE...Love all of you...Uncle Carl

Richard was a great friend to many.. A great friend to me, and he will be dearly missed..Our prayers are with you....

To the family of Richard Bruce and to the crew of Richard's Auto. Our thoughts and prayers are with you, Richard will be missed. If there is anything we can do, do not hesitate to call. The Team of 1800 Radiator.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of Richard ... his thoughtfulness and caring will live on in those whose lives he touched.
With Deepest Sympathy,
The Greb Family

Richard was some many things to so many people a son, father, brother, friend, advisor, peace maker, riding partner so on i could name thousand things. Richard will truly be missed God opened his arms and took an important person in our lives. May God Comfort Anna, Linda, and his children during this time. You are in our thoughts and prayers.

It is very rare that someone truly unique comes along and stands out in this world. Richard stood hands above most people in life. If he gave you his word on something, you never had to give it another thought. He could always make you smile with some crazy situation he came across.

My life is absolutly better from having been lucky enouph to know him.

Look out God, because life as you know it is about to get a whole lot more fun up there!

May your memories comfort you in this time of need. Richard will be missed by all....Our deepest sympathy, Lester & Lou Lott

We were so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.

Richard made this world a brighter place for everyone he met and knew. His fun-loving and positive attitude and genuine love for his friends and family will be remembered and cherished in the hearts and minds of those who knew and loved him. Our prayers are with his family and many, many close friends, during this difficult time.

Jody McKnight

He will be missed by both of us very
very much and we hope the best for
all his loved ones and friends.

My Deepest Sympathy to the family, My Prayers are with you.
Good-Bye to a dear friend you will surely be missed.

My sympathy to everyone who had the priveledge of knowing Richard. My heartfelt prayers to his family and friends.

Our thoughts and prayers are with you in this time of need.christina,jimmy,nick,jaimei,Deguzman

My daddy was the best and will always be. I dont care what anybody says!