Bruce Vance Obituary

Bruce Walker Vance, 89, passed away peacefully on September 12, 2025, surrounded by his family. He was born on July 2, 1936, in Stanton, Kentucky to Della Chapman Vance and Walker Bruce Vance. He was preceded in death by his parents, sister, Pat DePoole and brother-in-laws, Nick DePoole, Ted Kowalski, and John Rita. Bruce will be remembered for the love and devotion he gave to his family and country. Bruce is survived by his loving wife of 67 years, Elizabeth (Liz) Vance. Together they built a beautiful life and family. He is also survived by his daughters, Terry Beach (Chuck), Cindy Steel (John), Debbie Mattox (Mark), and son, Gary Vance (Tammy). Bruce will be forever remembered by his 10 grandchildren and 16 great -grandchildren, his sisters, Peggy Kowalski and Sandy Adamek (Jerry), and sisters-in-law, Mary Jane Schmidt and Lou Rita, as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Bruce proudly served in the United States Marine Corps for 31 years. While stationed in Hawaii, he met the love of his life, Elizabeth. They married on April 5, 1958, and during his military career they moved all over the country before settling in Beaufort, where he retired in 1985. A proud Vietnam War veteran and also a Marine Mustang, Bruce was deeply devoted to his fellow Marines and his country. After his retirement from the Marine Corps, Bruce continued a life of faith and service, working as the maintenance manager for Saint Peter's Catholic Church and School. Bruce and Elizabeth shared a love for traveling, often journeying across the country in their RV and making regular trips to Hawaii. Along the way, they created countless memories and lifelong friendships. Family was always his greatest joy, and he rarely missed a chance to be present at his children's, grandchildren's, and great-grandchildren's milestones, whether sporting events, church gatherings, or family celebrations. A man of honor, faith, and integrity, Bruce set an example of strength, kindness, and devotion that will live on through his family and all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and forever cherished. The family would like to thank the Amedisys Foundation, especially nurses Sissy VanSant and Heather Maier who made the last months of Bruce's journey easier. Our family wants to thank Bruce's sister, Sandy, and her husband, Jerry, for their love and support during this difficult time. Visitation for Bruce will be held on Monday, September 22, 2025 at the St. Peter's Catholic Church from 10:00 AM until 11:00 AM with Mass beginning at 11:00 AM. Graveside Services will follow at the Beaufort National Cemetery with Military Honors at 1:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to be made to Circle of Hope Ministries or Tunnel to Towers Foundation, which supports America's Heroes and their families.