Bruce Edward Fleenor, 74, of Hampton, Virginia, passed away Easter Sunday, April, 5, 2026,  a day symbolizing hope, renewal, and everlasting life. What a fitting and beautiful day for the captain of our ship to awaken and meet his Lord.

Bruce lived a life anchored in love, loyalty, and unwavering devotion to his family. He was our steady hand, our guide, and our greatest source of strength. Above all else, he loved his family deeply, and his greatest joy was simply being with them, laughing, sharing stories, and creating memories that will forever be treasured.

In healthier days, Bruce found happiness in life’s simple pleasures. He could often be found piddling in his garage, taking sunset cruises along the creek, relaxing on the back porch while jamming to music, watching boat traffic on Harris Creek, or pointing out Air Force jets overhead as he proudly shared what freedom meant to him. Those moments, quiet yet meaningful, reflected the heart of a man who found beauty in everyday life.

Bruce was born in Hampton, Virginia to Jacklyn and Edward Fleenor on August 11, 1951. As their only child, he was truly the apple of their eye. He spent his early years along the banks of Hampton, surrounded by cousins and neighborhood friends.

His life changed the year he failed English at Kecoughtan High School. It has often been said that on the first day of summer school, he made quite the entrance, kicking open the classroom door as he walked in. It was there he met the love of his life, Donna Ledford. That bold entrance led to a lifelong love story, and Bruce and Donna were married in June 1971.

Bruce had a true entrepreneurial spirit. From owning a dump truck business, to selling farm fencing. Bruce and Donna moved to the Shenandoah Valley and there he decided to make a career change. That is where he began his lifelong career as a Federal Food Inspector for the USDA. He was a proud Union man and dedicated 28 years to protecting the nation’s food supply with integrity and diligence.

Eight years before his retirement, while out on the water, Bruce discovered what would become his dream home. With Donna by his side, he set course on another adventure back to Hampton, where he spent the remainder of his days surrounded by the people and place he loved most. It was during this season of life that his heart grew even fuller, as he proudly took on his most cherished role, Pops, to his four grandchildren.

Bruce is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Donna; his devoted children, Brad (Michael) Fleenor and Ginny (Ryan) Tuttle; and his adored grandchildren, McCoy, Parker, Conor and Alivia, who were the light of his life.

Though our captain has set sail beyond the horizon, his love will continue to guide us, steady us, and carry us forward.

Fair winds and following seas, Pops…until we meet again.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00 PM on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at First United Methodist Church Fox Hill, 1 Salt Pond Road, Hampton. The family will receive friends at the church immediately following the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to First United Methodist Church Fox Hill.

Arrangements by R. Hayden Smith Funeral Home.