Bruce B. Hart
Bruce Burleson Hart, a man of integrity and service to others, died peacefully at the age of 78 on Thursday, June 28, 2018 in Charlotte. Bruce was born April 19, 1940 in Charlotte, the son of Max and Esther (Burleson) Hart. As a 12-year-old boy, he met his life-long friend and future wife, Marilyn, on the 4th of July. They remained best friends through high school and participated together in many activities. Bruce played trombone in the band and was a talented member of the debate team. After graduating from Olivet High School, Bruce attended one year of Olivet College before transferring to Western Michigan University. Concurrently, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy, serving summers in officer candidate school. He graduated from WMU in 1962 before serving four years active duty from 1962-1966 in Newport, Rhode Island. Bruce would remain in the Navy reserves until 1984, retiring after 22 years of service to his country.
Following his service in Rhode Island, Bruce moved to Washington D.C., where he earned his Juris Doctorate from George Washington University. During his second year, he was honored to be asked to be a member of the Law Review. He graduated Magna Cum Laude in 1969 before working briefly for the Internal Revenue Service. He moved to Dallas, Texas, where he opened his own private law practice and taught law at Southern Methodist University. During this time, he served as a member of the Navy Judge Advocate General’s Corps.
Bruce and Marilyn, despite decades living separate lives, both returned home to Charlotte within a few years of each other. They were married January 1, 2000 and lived a life of love, Christian Faith and community service. They were members of Lawrence Avenue United Methodist Church in Charlotte and volunteered for many local groups and helped countless people in many capacities. Bruce was active in the Gideons and Charlotte Rotary Club. He received the volunteerism award for Guiding Harbor in 2018 and served 20 years on the Board of InterVarsity Christian Club. He operated his own private practice law firm in Charlotte, using his expertise to help many in need and organize countless service organizations. Many will remember Bruce for his service to others, to his country, and to his Faith.
Bruce is survived by his loving wife, Marilyn; daughter, Alexandra Hart; brothers, Barry (Mary) Hart and Ben Hart; a niece; two nephews; and several great nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his parents.
Friends are encouraged to support Bruce’s family at visitation and memorial services. Memorial services are Saturday, July 14, at 1 p.m. at Lawrence Avenue United Methodist Church, with Rev. Gary Wales officiating. Visitation is one hour prior to the service.
If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to John MacArthur’s Ministry “Grace to You” PO Box 4000, Panorama City, CA 91412, or to the Lawrence Avenue United Methodist Church.
Friends and family are encouraged to share memories of Bruce on his tribute page at PrayFuneral.com.