Bruce Burnley

OTTAWA – Bruce Burnley, age 63, of Ottawa, passed away Friday, July 15, 2016, at OSF St. Elizabeth Medical Center.

Memorial services will be held at Gladfelter Funeral Home Saturday July 23, from 1-3 p.m. with Pastor Craig Purches officiating.  Visitation will be held from noon till 1 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home.

Bruce was born on September 30, 1952 in Chicago, Illinois, the son of Clarence and Charlesetta (Flynn) Burnley.  He leaves to cherish his memories two children, Jeramie (Alyssa) Burnley and Stephannie (Jacob) Newmann, both of Ottawa; three grandchildren, Jayden and Aaliyah Burnley and Ambrianna Newmann , all of Ottawa; the mother of his two children, Shirley Shepard; two brothers, Clarence and Arthur (Julie) Burnley, both of Ottawa; two sisters, Dorothy Burnley and Connie Hill, both of Ottawa; a brother in-law, Paul Lenace; seventeen nieces and nephews; and a host of cousins, family, and friends.  He was preceded in death by his father, Clarence Burnley; his mother Charlesetta Burnley; his sister, Rochelle Burnley; his brother, Jamal Burnley; a niece, Connie Lenace; and a nephew, James Burnley.

Bruce was baptized at a very early age at Calvary Baptist Church under Pastor Craig Purches.  He attended Delano grade school up to the eighth grade, from which he graduated, and went on to attend Marshall High School in Chicago.  Bruce later went on to work for Jim’s Formal Wear and Blackley Cleaners up until his retirement.  In his free time, Bruce loved playing card games, watching sports, and spending time with his family.  Bruce was a loving, caring and kind hearted person.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the family.