TJ Bruce, 84, of Statesville, N.C., died Thursday, June 1, 2023.

He was born in Darlington, S.C., on December 24, 1938, to the late Elder Bruce and Emma Goodson Bruce. He was also preceded in death by a daughter, Annette Hart, and Willie Ellis, who helped raise him.

TJ retired from Cannon Mills. He loved to shoot pool, go to casinos, and traveling, especially to the Bahamas.

Those left to cherish his memory include his wife of 38 years, Ada Chambers Bruce; a son, Ronnie Bruce (Katherine); a daughter, Lakesha Tucker (Maurice); a goddaughter, Lakisha Hall; a son-in-law, Charles Hart; a brother, Elder Bruce Jr.; a sister, Jean Bruce; eight grandchildren; numerous great-grandchildren and Jimmie Kelly, who he raised as a son.

A commemorative celebration for TJ will be held at 115 Book Court, Statesville, N.C., on Saturday, June 24, 2023, beginning at 12 noon.