Thomas Newton Bruce

Thomas Newton Bruce 88 passed on to his heavenly reward July 20, 2013. Tommy was born October 1, 1924 to Levi Newton and Mary Bell Long Bruce. His father Levi was a Confederate Calvary Veteran. After his father died he spent his early years in Rogersville and Hawkins County. He was a simple man who grew up a country boy. He loved his wife and his children and was a very good provider. He was extremely loyal to his family. He had friends wherever he went. He was dedicated to God and devoted service to his Church. During World War II platoon Sgt. Bruce served in US Army as a Ranger in the 66th Inf. Div. On Dec 24, 1944 he was aboard SS Leopoldville crossing the English Channel toward the Battle of the Bulge. The Germans struck the ship with a torpedo in the compartment where the Rangers were resting. His whole Company was killed by the explosion. Tom was saved by a table that collapsed on his leg resulting in his rescue on the first boat to Cherbourg France. The ship sunk taking 800 men down with it. Tom recovered from injuries to continue the fight to defeat Hitler. Tom never forgot his drowned comrades honoring them with an annual Christmas Eve memorial at 6 PM. Tom was a salesman for Lay’s Packing Co. He received many awards for best sales and was well known by East Tennessee butchers. Thomas married Maude Miller Moneyhun in 1949. Maude passed in 1991. Surviving are son Thomas W. Bruce, daughter Nancy Bruce and longtime friend Donald Raby all of Fountain City. The family expresses gratitude for their many friends who have helped them in these difficult days. It is impossible to name each but special thanks go to Harlan and Tricia Hubbs, Gordon and Linda Davis, Rev. Charles Fels, Rev. Lani Hubbard, church members at Good Shepherd and the residents of Tazewell Pointe, and Doctors and staff of Tennova. Family and friends will meet 4 pm Wednesday at Greenwood Cemetery for a graveside service. Donations in lieu of flowers to Church of the Good Shepherd, 5337 Jacksboro Pk, Knoxville 37918.