Bruce Edward Stevens, age 85, of Christiansburg, VA, beloved husband of Mary Joyce Matthews Stevens, devoted father of Susan E. Stevens and proud grandfather of James Edward Huckle, departed his earthly life on Saturday, October 6, 2012, at Lewis-Gale Montgomery Hospital. He was predeceased by his parents, Lyle M. Stevens and Nell Lemon Stevens; brother, Roderick B. Stevens; sisters-in-law, Dorothy O. Obenshain and Loraine B. Stevens; and brother-in-law, Jack L. Matthews. Survivors include brothers, Richard L. Stevens & wife Evelyn of Raleigh, NC, Samuel R. Stevens of Roanoke; brother-in-law, James W. Matthews & wife Carolyn of Salem; and 5 nieces and 3 nephews.
Bruce was a member of St. Paul United Methodist Church where he served on the Administrative Board, and greatly enjoyed singing with the Joy Singers and attending Men’s Club dinners, Senior lunches, and the Men’s Sunday School Class.
A US Army Veteran, he served two tours of duty in Germany, and was assigned to the 7th Army Headquarters Special Services Section. He volunteered for service when he was 18 years of age and always felt great pride in being able to serve his country.
He was a graduate of William Fleming High School, attended Bluefield Junior College, received his BS degree from Concord College (University) and his Master’s Degree in School Administration from Radford College.
Bruce retired from the Montgomery County School System with 33 years of service. He then pursued a second part-time career at Reed Lumber Company, from which he retired after 22 years. He was an avid gardener and enjoyed nothing more than sharing his produce with family and friends.
He was a member of the Christiansburg Lions Club with 50 years perfect attendance. He was presented the Melvin Jones Fellow Award for dedicated humanitarian services, the highest award given by Lions International. He was a member of the American Legion Post 59, and served on the Executive Board of VHSL during his tenure with the school system.
The family will receive friends on Monday, October 8, 2012, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at St. Paul United Methodist Church, Christiansburg, with the funeral service to directly follow. Rev. Michael Copeland will officiate the service, with interment following in Sunset Cemetery, Christiansburg.
A very special note of deep appreciation to Dr. John White, Dr. William S. Cox, Dr. Art Roberson, second and fourth floor nurses, respiratory therapists and all others who provided outstanding care for Bruce and compassion to the family. Your kindness will always be remembered.
The family respectfully requests memorials to Warm Hearth Foundation Neighbors in Need Fund, 2603 Warm Hearth Drive, Blacksburg, VA 24060, attention Karen Nelson.