IL SR1959

Pastor Willis Allen Bruce of Alton passed away on May 26, 2016, and the Illinois Senate expresses its condolences to his family and loved ones.

Born August 14, 1921, in St. Louis, Missouri, Pastor Bruce served in World War II with the 3443rd Quartermaster Truck Company and received an Honorable Discharge as a Sergeant in 1945, earning three Battle Stars and six Overseas Bars.

Retired from Laclede Steel in Alton after over 30 years of employment and became an ordained minister in the early 1970s, serving as Pastor of Salem Baptist Church in Alton for 39 years.

Married Juanita Katheryn Merriweather on June 2, 1946, and was survived by four adult children, eight grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

A suitable copy of the resolution shall be presented to Pastor Bruce's family as an expression of the Senate's deepest sympathy.