Doris Jean Bruce, a beloved figure in her community and a devoted family member, peacefully passed away on Friday, September 26, 2025, at Coleman Healthcare Center, leaving behind a legacy of love and faith. Born on February 11, 1937, in Santa Anna, Texas, Doris grew up in Coleman and La Porte, ultimately graduating from La Porte High School.
Doris dedicated much of her life to her family and community, working for many years at Anthony’s and Owl Drug while prioritizing her roles as a loving wife, mother, and pastor’s wife. Her marriage to Raymond Lewis Bruce on December 16, 1965, in Sanford, Florida, marked the beginning of forty-nine wonderful years together before his passing. Doris’s unwavering commitment to her family and her spiritual life defined her existence. She was a devoted Christian whose love for the Lord shone brightly through her daily devotions and Bible studies, providing a strong foundation for her family and those who knew her.
Her gentle spirit was matched by her adventurous love for life; she enjoyed watching good western movies and spending time with her family, creating lasting memories that will be cherished in their hearts. Doris’s personality radiated warmth and kindness, making her a treasured presence in the lives of many.
Surviving her are two sons, James “Jim” Bruce and his wife Ruth of Umatilla, Florida, and Raymond Bruce, Jr. and his wife Monte of Coleman. Doris also leaves behind nine grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren, all of whom will carry forth her rich legacy of love. She is lovingly remembered by her brother, Bob Epperson of Houston.
Doris is now reunited in heaven with her parents, Rom Epperson and Era Jewel Preas Epperson; her husband, Raymond Lewis Bruce, Sr.; her son, Donald Wayne Bruce; and her siblings, Ruth, Fae, Mae, Evelyn, and Ray, who have all preceded her in death.
A visitation will be held on Friday, October 3, 2025, from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm at Stevens Funeral Home Chapel, 400 W. Pecan Street, in Coleman. Family and friends are invited to a graveside service at 10:00 am Saturday, October 4, 2025, at the Coleman City Cemetery Pavilion with Rev. Marvin Hale, pastor of Northside Baptist Church in Santa Anna, officiating. Services are entrusted to Stevens Funeral Home in Coleman.
In celebrating the life of Doris Jean Bruce, we remember her profound impact on her family, her community, and her unwavering faith that continues to inspire us all.
Memorials are requested to the Coleman Senior Center, P.O. Box 785, Coleman, Texas 76834. This organization was very dear to Doris as it helped her in so many ways.
We invite you to share fond memories and words of comfort and condolence with the Bruce family by signing the guestbook on Doris’s tribute page at www.stevensfuneralhome.com. Steven Funeral Home is honored to serve the Bruce family.
