GALLATIN, Tenn. – Miriam Bruce, 90, passed away peacefully Oct. 1, 2016, at her home in Gallatin. She was born to Walter and Ora Irvine on Dec. 12, 1925, in Leesburg. She married the love of her life, Robert “Bob” Bruce, on Sept. 23, 1944, and moved to Claypool, where she and her husband raised their four children and were owners of the Claypool Grain Elevator. She worshiped at Warsaw Wesleyan Church from 1927 to 2000. There, she faithfully served new mothers and young families, organizing and running the church nursery and cradle roll. Throughout her life she was deeply compassionate, ministering to the needs of those who were sick, lonely or discouraged. She was a true prayer warrior and servant of God. She was generous and hospitable, known for her homemade noodles and dinner parties. She loved filling her home with family and friends. In 1998, Bob and Miriam moved from their Claypool estate to Warsaw, to live near their son, Ron. Two years later they moved to Gallatin so their daughters could provide hands-on care during their convalescent years. Bob passed away in January 2009, and Miriam spent the remainder of her life anchored in hope, steadfast in faith and abounding in love and joy. She was an inspiration to us all! She is survived by her children: Donna Shoemaker (and spouse Kurt), Ron Bruce (and spouse Sue) and Leona Green (and spouse Isaac), Gallatin, and Lynn Bruce (and spouse Cheryl), Zeeland, Mich.; 12 grandchildren: Greg Shoemaker (and spouse Michelle), Brian Shoemaker (and spouse Jenny), Eric Shoemaker, Amy Gann (and spouse Jackie), Aaron Bruce (and spouse Rona), Andrea Hunter (and spouse Matt), Brandon Bruce (and spouse Jennifer), Brock Bruce (and spouse Denise), Bradley Bruce (and spouse Julie), Jessica Willis (and spouse Allen), Sarah Green and Rachel Green; 23 great-grandchildren; and several nieces, nephews and extended family members. She was preceded by her husband of 65 years, Robert Bruce; her parents, Walter and Ora Irvine; brothers Harold, James and Vernie Irvine; and sisters Esther Clark and Eunice Hansen. A life celebration will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday at Gallatin First Church of the Nazarene, 407 N. Water Ave., Gallatin, officiated by the Rev. Lynn Bruce and the Rev. Brandon Bruce. Burial will take place at noon Thursday at Graceland Cemetery, Claypool. Visitation will be from 2 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at Crestview Funeral Home, Gallatin, and from 10 to 11 a.m. Wednesday at the church.
