Julia C. Bruce

Julia C. “Julie” Bruce, of Newtown Square, PA, formerly of Upper Darby, PA, a cherished member of her community and a devoted family matriarch, passed away peacefully on April 20, 2026, at the age of 90.

Born in Philadelphia, PA, she was the daughter of the late Joseph C. and Julia E. (née McCourt) Carlisle.

Julie’s early life in Upper Darby was shaped by her education at St. Laurence School, followed by her graduation from Notre Dame High School in Moylan, Pennsylvania, in the class of 1953. It was during her youth that she met Samuel A. Bruce, Sr. at a St. Colemans dance, a meeting that would lead to a lifelong partnership. After waiting for Sam’s return from military duty, they were married on September 7, 1957, beginning a marriage rooted in love and mutual respect.

Her career journey began shortly after high school, when Julie was employed at Bell of Pennsylvania. She chose to retire from Bell to dedicate herself as a full-time homemaker when her first child was born. Following the passing of her husband in 1983, Julie admirably returned to the workforce, taking on several positions including roles at Villanova University and St. Joseph’s University, as well as various temporary jobs. She eventually secured a full-time position with Bell Atlantic/Verizon, from which she retired with a sense of accomplishment and pride.

Julie’s involvement extended far beyond her career. She was a devoted Cub Scout den mother, a volunteer in the St. Laurence School library and lunchroom, and an active member of the St. Laurence Senior Citizens Club. Her commitment to service included driving for the St. Laurence HOPE program, singing in the St. Laurence Choir, and volunteering at Delaware County Memorial Hospital. Her leadership and dedication were evident during her tenure as president of the Monsignor Bonner High School Mother's Club, as well as her volunteer work in the high school’s guidance counselor’s office. Later in life, she continued her community contributions as a member of the St. Anastasia Senior Citizens Club. Throughout it all, Julie was a passionate and lifelong fan of Villanova University Men’s Basketball, finding joy and camaraderie in the sport she loved.

Julie was a faithful parishioner for 75 years at St. Laurence Parish in Upper Darby, before transitioning to St. Anastasia Parish in 2010, where she remained an active and cherished member until her passing.

Julie’s greatest pride was her family. She was a devoted wife to Sam and a loving mother to her five children. Her legacy continues through her twelve grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, all of whom carry forward the values and strength she embodied.

Julie was the beloved wife of 25 years of the late Samuel A. Bruce, Sr.; the loving mother of Samuel Bruce, Jr., John Bruce (Carolyn), Julia Rieker, Joseph Bruce (Leslie), and Jeffrey Bruce (Suzanne). She was the caring and devoted grandmother of Walter Rieker, Jeffrey Rieker, Kathryn Bruce, Jacqueline Bruce, Anne Marie Bruce, Matthew Bruce, Danielle Thomas, Nicholas Bruce, Angelique Ellis, Natalie Bruce, Genevieve Bruce, and Kenneth Bruce. She was the dear great-grandmother of Emmett and Norah Bruce, and Vivian Thomas. Julie is also survived by her brother, James Carlisle (Linda), as well as her many nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by her siblings, Joseph Carlisle, Jr. and Joan Racine.

Relatives and friends are invited to her Viewing, Saturday, April 25, 2026, 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM at St. Anastasia Church, 3301 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square, PA, followed by her Funeral mass, 10:30 AM. Interment thereafter at SS. Peter and Paul Cemetery, Springfield, PA.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Julie’s memory to the American Cancer Society, American Cancer Society/">https://American Cancer Society/.