GEORGE W. BRUNER, JR
1928-2021
George Wesley Bruner, Jr., a Christian, a veteran, loving husband, and adoring father took Heavenly flight on Saturday, May 29, 2021 at the age of 93. He was born January 29, 1928, in Houston, Texas to George W. Bruner, Sr. and Irma Klein Bruner. He demonstrated the call to a life of service to others when at the age of 8, George found himself providing and caring for his young widowed mother and 2 sisters. Beginning work in elementary school, he sold newspapers, delivered telegrams and drove an ambulance before he honorably enlisted in the US Army.
In 1950, George met and married Novice Jean Wells of Madisonville, Texas, and remained happily married for 70 years. George and Novice were true partners: in serving the Lord, in parenting, in business, and in travel.
Always devoted and involved, he served as a Sunday School teacher at Tallowood Baptist Church for 25 years. A long-time member of the Memorial Lion’s Club, George’s volunteer work enabled those with Juvenile Diabetes to attend special summer camps, and the visually impaired to receive care. George and Novice received the Jefferson Award for Community Service as founders of a 58 year long Christmas ministry program, in addition to other service in the community.
George found adventure in life through entrepreneurship and outdoor activities. He and Novice owned various businesses and he was hard-working. For further adventure, he backpacked and fished in Alaska; camped, hunted and skied in the Rockies; and visited almost every state in Mexico by car. In addition, the time he spent fishing and sailing in Galveston Bay brought him enjoyment and renewal.
George loved Jesus and served him throughout his life. The Word of the Lord impacted the souls of many inmates throughout George’s time as volunteer Chaplain for Harris County Jail, and by ministering in Texas prisons. Additionally, he treasured his time ministering to others by traveling to those in need. He served God across three continents, and it brought such meaning to his life.
George is survived by his wife of 70 years, Novice Jean Bruner; daughter Georgene Baker and husband David; son Butch Bruner and wife Janet; daughter Kim Kelly and husband Jim; numerous grandchildren; numerous great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by sister Mary Alice Jordan; sister Virginia Henricy; son George W. Bruner, III; and son Mark Kevin Bruner.
Our heartfelt thanks go to George’s loving caregivers and Blue Star Hospice. A service celebrating George’s life will be held on Monday, June 7, 1:30 pm, Tallowood Baptist Church, 555 Tallowood Drive, Houston, Texas 77024.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to: Paul Carlin Prison Ministries, P.O. Box 1168, Crockett, TX 75835, phone: 936-5442362. Email: theministrychuch777@gmail.com