John Doyle Bruce

John Doyle Bruce, 78, of Lubbock, Texas, passed away on April 23, 2026, in Lubbock. The viewing will be 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 30, 2026, at Steed-Todd Funeral Home, Clovis, New Mexico. Funeral Services will be held 11:00 a.m., Friday, May 1, 2026, at Steed-Todd Funeral Home, Clovis, New Mexico with Jason Bruce, officiating. A burial will follow at Melrose, New Mexico cemetery.

John Doyle Bruce was born in Clovis, New Mexico to Elton Dean Bruce and Winnie Bruce on July 28, 1947. He graduated from Melrose, New Mexico in 1965. He married Donna M. Bruce on July 9, 1976. He started his career with the AT&SF Railway in Clovis, New Mexico in 1966 as a signalman. He moved into a signal inspector position, and ultimately into the signal supervisor role. All the roles were within the New Mexico Division.

John is preceded in death by his father, Elton D. Bruce, mother, Winnie Bruce, stepmother, Ladell Bruce, and brother, Leslie Bruce.

John is survived by his wife, Donna M. Bruce, children Kellie Bruce, Rick Bruce (Dena), and Gary Bruce; grandchildren, Travis Ward (Tony), Derek Ward (Emerald), Garrett Bruce, and Reid Bruce (Jenna); great grandchildren include, De'Laniey, Keeley, Creedence, Carsyn, and Cillian. He is also survived by sister, Linda Hillis and family, brother, Bobby Bruce (Donna) and family and numerous nephews, nieces and cousins.

Pallbearers will be Scott Burnett, Corey Bruce, Travis Bruce, Dean Bruce, Ty Roozemond, Michael Jacobs, and Kenny Jacobs.

John lived a life defined by service, quiet strength, and unwavering dedication to the people around him. He was a man of deep faith whose beliefs shaped the way he lived each day. He found strength and guidance in his faith, and he carried those values into his actions, relationships, and service to others. A devoted member of his church, John gave generously of his time and energy, whether through volunteering, offering support to fellow parishioners, or quietly helping those in need. He was a gifted craftsman who could shape, repair, and create with remarkable skill. No challenge ever seemed too great, he approached every obstacle with determination, ingenuity, and a steady confidence that inspired those who knew him. An avid hunter, John found deep connection and purpose in the outdoors. He was not only passionate about the outdoors but also generous in sharing his knowledge, serving as a trusted guide and mentor to many fellow hunters. Whether in the woods or by the water, he felt most at home in nature. Fishing, exploring, and embracing the outdoors were among his greatest joys, and he carried that sense of peace and appreciation into every part of his life. Above all else, John's family was his heart and his highest priority. He was a steadfast presence, reliable, supportive, and always ready to step into whatever role was needed. His love showed not just in words, but in actions: in the sacrifices he made, the help he offered without hesitation, and the countless ways he put others before himself. John will be remembered for his strength of character, his generosity of spirit, and the enduring impact he had on all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the lessons he shared, and the love he gave so freely.

In lieu of flowers, the family request donations to New Mexico Christian Children's Home,1356 NM Hwy 236, Portales, NM 88130. nmcch.org