Bruce Phillip Mears, age 71, passed peacefully early Friday morning, August 2, 2024, at home. He was born August 6, 1952, in Montgomery, Maryland, the son of the late Paul Kramer Mears and Alice May Boerum Joy.

Bruce is survived by his beloved wife of 52 years, Annie Cobb Mears; children, David John Mears (Laurie Bland), Lori Shah (Chirage), and Elizabeth "Ellie" Mears; grandchildren, Sophie Shah, Zoe Shah, Sarah Shah, and Nolan James Ward; sisters, Cathy Ortiz, Karen Jarrett, and Donna Mears; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Bruce loved fishing, the ocean, and the great outdoors. He was a talented builder, having helped nearly everyone who knew him to build or repair something. He was passionate about his career in radiology, with a sensitivity and skill remembered long after his retirement. In his retirement he spent many long hours with his farm animals, especially the dogs and horses. He is remembered for walking his pony many miles to help him with his hooves.  He loved boats, having helped build them as a child and in adulthood at Grady White. He spent many camping trips with his family crabbing, surf fishing, and grilling. He had a love of good food and a great enjoyment of new restaurants. He was always printing out new recipes he wanted to try, especially desserts. Bruce's laughter and jokes will be remembered by all who knew him. He loved his family and had great love for and pride in his children. He will be missed by many.

A memorial service will be 11:00 a.m. Saturday August 10, 2024, at Quinn McGowen Funeral Home Burgaw Chapel with the Rev. Merrell McKoy conducting the service. The family will receive friends at the funeral home following the service. And to continue a time of fellowship, sharing of memories and a reception at Atkinson Baptist Church Fellowship Hall.

Shared memories and condolences may be sent to the family by selecting Tribute Wall.

Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home Burgaw Chapel.