Spc. Jacques E. Brunson

Spc. Jacques E. Brunson

Jacques E. Brunson Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Jul. 30, 2005.
One night more than 20 years ago, Jacques E. Brunson and his dad were stranded on the side of the Florida Turnpike when the family's moving van ran out of gas. As they waited for help, Brunson heard the sharp music of insects and asked his father what it was. Crickets, was the reply. Moments later, the son piped up, "I'll tell you what they're saying, Daddy. They're saying, 'I love you, I love you.'" Brunson, 30, of Americus, Ga., died July 24 in Baghdad when an explosive detonated near his vehicle. He was stationed at Albany. His parents nicknamed him after the old Schlitz beer commercial with the slogan, "Go for the gusto." At the time, the 10-month-old was proving to be a real handful himself, so his father decided to start calling him Gus. He is survived by his children, Kayla, 9, and Jake, 8. Pfc. Johnny Mann, a friend, said what he's likely to remember most about Brunson was how he would rush over to his bunk to talk about a video game. "'Hey man, I've got something to show you,'" Mann recalls Brunson saying. "'There's a new monster they created. There's a new level I just got.'"

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Sign Jacques E. Brunson's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

May 30, 2024

Chaplain Clemens posted to the memorial.

January 29, 2023

peggy pollock posted to the memorial.

December 2, 2021

Charlie Gili posted to the memorial.

Chaplain Clemens

May 30, 2024

Gus, I have always remembered you since DLI. You loved your children and your friends still mourn your loss. May your memory be blessed. Truly you walked with God....

peggy pollock

January 29, 2023

I go often to your grave and leave flowers and talk to you, you shoulda never been there . I remember talking to you before you left and asking you was this a good reason to go what if you don´t come back and you told me in your way so be it. Miss you everyday

Charlie Gili

December 2, 2021

Hello,

We apologize for being so late in expressing our deepest condolences to you and your family. We want you to know that we will be sending Care Packages to deployed troops this holiday season and several of these will be dedicated to your loved one. Each package will carry the name, photo, service branch, rank and hometown of Jacques E. Brunson US Army Specialist.

We realize that this is a small tribute, but we do this with all respect and sincerity and we want you to know that it is made possible by thousands of like-minded individuals from across the American youth hockey community, their families, friends and others who support our mission.

We will not forget. May God Bless you and keep you safe and strong.

Sincerely,
Charlie Gili & Family
On Behalf of our US Hockey Players Support Our Troops Campaign

Katrina Tiptin

May 31, 2017

It's been a long time and so much has happened. Most days Gus is a passing memory that brings a smile or a pang if sadness that he isn't here to see something, a wish for his pranks or his smile or his big bear hugs. He is thought of often, and always with love and sadness that He is gone. I've been missing him terribly lately though. The late night talks, the silly stories, the long walks, the solid friendship. The things we never said. Gus, you're still missed very much and loved very deeply. And never ever forgotten.

Elizabeth Bailey

July 20, 2015

In memory after ten years of losing my best friend.

Elizabeth Bailey

March 20, 2014

I knew Gus at DLI, and kept in touch with him in Iraq. Even now not a day goes by I do not think of him. As I have gone through the years I swear he is a guardian angel, keeping me safe,

Peggy Childers

July 24, 2013

To the family and friends of Spc. Jacques E. Brunson:
Always remembering Jacques. "Some gave all."

Peggy Childers

July 24, 2011

To the family and friends of Spc. Jacques E. Brunson:
Please accept my remembrance of Jacques on the anniversary of his passing and know that he will never be forgotten.

James Youngblood

January 29, 2011

I remember it like yesterday. Peace to you.

Peggy Childers

July 24, 2010

To the family and friends of Spc. Jacques E. Brunson:
Remembering Jacques on the anniversary of his passing. May our fallen heroes never be forgotten!
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org

Dominique Hall

January 31, 2010

My thoughts and prayers go out to you during this difficult time. May the God of all comfort bring peace until he destroys this enemy, death, once and for all time. The dead will have the prospect of remaining on earth forever under peaceful, paradisaical conditions.

Peggy Childers

July 24, 2009

To the family of Spc. Jacques E. Brunson:
Jacques gave the ultimate sacrifice and will be held in the hearts of Americans forever. I cannot and will not let our fallen heroes be forgotten. My deepest sympathy to you. "Some gave all."
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org

Kenna Larra

June 10, 2009

”Honor and Remember” - “Project Compassion” We love our Soldiers! We love our country and we cannot express enough love and compassion to the families of our fallen heroes. War does not discriminate – It breaks our hearts to see the faces of the fallen. We want to give this gift to you. We are a 501c3 nonprofit organization! Over 1,550 portraits have been completed and shipped to the parents and or spouse - at no cost as this is a gift from one American to another!
Contact us directly at [email protected] or go to www.heropaintings.com . If you have already had a portrait completed, we pray that you are enjoying the portrait and God Bless You.
Sincerely and Respectfully,
Kenna

Millard Kirkland

April 16, 2009

We'll never forget you.

Barbara Conway

February 6, 2009

I represent Prayer Shawls 4 Fallen Soldiers, an organization that since October of 2007 has sent over 2,700 prayer shawls to military families who have lost a loved one. We are an organization of 236 knitting groups from all over the country. We make every effort to reach familes. Would a friend of the family kindly send me a contact email/address so that we may send a prayer shawl to the family of Jacques. My phone is 774 487-8618 and email is [email protected]
Fondly, Barbara

In Memory of 'Gus' - Jacques Earl Brunson ~ (Debra Estep)

July 24, 2008

Holding you all in my thoughts and prayers.


The Wind on The Downs

“I like to think of you as brown and tall,
As strong and living as you used to be,
In khaki tunic, Sam Brown belt and all,
And standing there and laughing down at me.
Because they tell me, dear, that you are dead,
Because I can no longer see your face,
You have not died, it is not true, instead
You seek adventure in some other place.
That you are round about me, I believe;
I hear you laughing as you used to do,
Yet loving all the things I think of you;
And knowing you are happy, should I grieve?
You follow and are watchful where I go.”

(Written by Marian Allen during World War l )

Two lines that I wish you to keep near your heart…….

“You seek adventure in some other place.
That you are round about me, I believe”


I did not know 'Gus', but I am remembering
his service. He is my hero. !

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

The Other Side

i'm over on the other side
where life and death softly divide.
left my skin and bones behind
now i'm over on the other side.

can you feel me there with you?
my breath is gone but i'm not through.
loved you then and i still do
from over on the other side.

i can fly. really fly.
below the earth ... all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.

it's good here on the other side.
the sweetest songs...the bluest skies.
thank you for the tears you cried
but it's good here on the other side.

i can fly. really fly. below the earth...all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side

the world is smaller than a needle's eye.
where life and death softly divide.
when you leave your skin and bones behind
i'll be waiting on the other side.

i can fly. really fly. below the earth ... all through the sky.
go tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.

Song lyrics by Don Conoscenti
C Desert Muse/SESAC
www.donconoscenti.com
(Used with permission)

“I hope it brings great comfort to any and all.
Peace on you. DonCon” 4-2008


The Other Side –
(To hear the song)
http://tinyurl.com/3o8gol



Sincerely,

Deb Estep ~ Ohio
Proud Air Force Mom SSgt Vince – Lackland AFB
Proud Air Force MIL SrA Dana – Randolph AFB

Remembering The Fallen – Blog
http://tinyurl.com/3z8p55

Angel and soldier drawing I have shared here.
http://tinyurl.com/6gey8b

May 6, 2008

You are remembered and respected. Thank you Spc Brunson!

November 13, 2007

he was a good man thankyou for serving our country

Debi Owens

August 22, 2007

My Step son Adam Checketts is on his way to iraq in two weeks. when i thought of him going i thought of our Gus our family friend since he was a child. he was part of the rat pack with Ronnie P, and April P, (my daughter) (ronnie is my SIL) and Asa M and James C, (whose brother gave his life in the line of duty with the Albany Police Force a few short months ago) It seems we are loosing our beloved friends and family at an alarming rate. Thank goodness Gus's friends are here to remember him as well as his family. When I think of Gus I remember the toy Drive his mom and wife did as he wished that for his christmas gift for us to give toys to the children in Iraq. It makes me remember this "He is not a hero for the way he died, But for the way he lived his life" Gus and that ever present smile of his. that grin that always made you think he was up to something. Gus we will never forget. I have started a web page in your honor and I want to get it attached to the Worth County Chamber of Commerce page i want to make a wall listing the Worth county men and women we have lost in this horrifying way. Gus always lived his life with happiness. And so we shall remember him as a happy young man that joined the forces to better himself and to earn a better wage and be able to take care of his family first. See the Brunson family is close tight nit and always , always cared for one another. I saw Gus's mom the other day in the court house but I felt such sorrow for her that i just couldn't get anything out of my mouth. I do not know her pain, i can only imagine it. To the family of Gus i leave my heart felt best wishes that Everyone that knew Gus will always remember him as a wonderful young man, husband and father and son and brother. You will never be forgotten Gus as I said not for how you passed but how you lived your life.
thank you for serving us all in the military and the ulltimate sacrafice you paid will not be forgotten.
Debi Owens (April Parkers Mom)
April and i have some very special memories of Gus they are tucked away in our hearts !!! missing you always Gus.

August 17, 2007

There is nothing that I can say or do to take away the pain or bring you peace in your time of sorrow, but I will offer you and your family my heart felt condolences. I also offer you my prayers that in time the pain will easy and the memories of your HERO will carry you through each day and night. I want to thank your HERO, for his/her selfless act of becoming a member of the armed forces, his/her willingness to defend the United States of America, all that we hold sacred and for the sacrifice that will forever be etched in the memories of all those who knew him/her. Though tears can never bring him/her back, we hope that our tears express our gratitude for the sacrifice that he/she made and our sorrow at his/her passing. I believe for every fallen HERO there is a star shining brightly up above to remind us of the precious gift we were given.

Your mission on earth is complete and you are now a member of GOD’s Heavenly armed forces. Stand down brave warrior and take your rightful place in Heaven with all the HEROES who have passed before.

I made a special promise to LE RON A. WILSON, a dear family friend who joined the Army with three other friends, one of whom is my son (Le Ron was killed in action on 07/06/07 at the age of 18) on the day he was laid to rest as I touched his coffin, that I would never forget him nor would I forget those that gave their lives for our country before him, with him and after him and so when I came across www.legacy.com, I thought what a great way to keep my promise to Le Ron, so I will continue to leave tributes in each guest book until the day there is no longer the need to leave these tributes to a FALLEN HERO.

REST IN PEACE, HERO, YOU WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN!!

PROUD MOTHER OF A U.S. SOLDIER
Currently stationed in Germany
Althea Barrett(Queens, NY)

Patsy Jo Reed Sircy

August 15, 2007

Suncere sympathy and love, Pat - R.N.

July 20, 2007

Thank you for the sacrifice made by Spc Brunson and the sacrifice made by everyone who loves and misses him! May God bless all of you!!

Lars Williams

June 25, 2007

To SPC Brunson's Family:
I served in Iraq with 48th BDE as part of BG Rodeheaver's PSD. I saw SPC Brunson's picture on the memorial wall at BDE HQ every time I went to BDE. It was important to me to pay a visit to the wall every time I went to BDE and I feel a great sense of loss for every service member that gave their life and for the family they left behind. Always remember: SPC Brunson was a patriat who fought for the liberty of others. There is no greater gift than the one he has given and he should alway be remember for his sacrifice. God bless him and his family. From one brother to another, we love you SPC Brunson.

MIKHAILA BRUNSON

June 17, 2007

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY BIG BROTHER REST IN PEACE I'LL SEE AT HOME .

mikhaila brunson

June 9, 2007

iam not a guest but the other page won't let me in to write a message . gus as your baby sister you will aways be on my mind i wish that we had more time with each other,more things to talk about,but in the time that i meet you i have found out that you a GREAT MAN,FRIEND,MOST OF MY BIG BROTHER.hope to see you at home save me a spot.

May 29, 2007

love to you all...

Debi Owens/Checketts

May 26, 2007

Yesterday I realized it was the anniversary of loosing our friend.
I was with Ronnie Parker,(son in law). Gus was one of 3 best met at their wedding, April and Ronnie.
We ran into an old friend of you guys we should really call yall the rat pack or maybe brat pack.
Ronnie P, Gus B, James C, Asa M.
Gosh has it really been a year. Gus Your Missed For Sure. I bought a flag to put on your grave site. I will be there Monday. To pray and to remember and to console my soul. Please remember all our fallen soldiers on Memorial Day

Wallace Moore

May 24, 2007

One fine Soldier. He gave so we can have. May God Bless his family, friends, and fellow servicemen.

Laurie Brunson

May 24, 2007

Two years ago today (5/24/05) was the last time we saw Gus. It was the day he was shipped out to Iraq. We lit a candle for you this morning Gus. We love and miss you always.
Jeff & Laurie

Lynn Goodburn-Buchanan

April 24, 2007

This message is past due beyond recognition, and I give my sympathy and prayers to every one who knew and loved Gus. I meet Gus when I lived in Albany, Georgia when he worked as a Security Gaurd for the prison and I said my good-byes to him two days before he went on duty to go to Iraq. The day I found out about his tragic death, I didn't want to believe it was true. This man who had so much in life, was cut short. He looked at life with so much adventure. How could this possible have happened to him? Gus was a very loving man, who would do any thing for his little girl and boy. He also did everything he possible could to make sure everyone around him was always happy. He did so much for my family, and it has been an honor and great privilege to have known him as long as I did. I know that Gus is sitting with God and watching over all of us, as he did when he was making his journey here on earth. Gus I will always love you and have you in my heart and prayers along with all the memories we shared.

Garnet JENSEN

July 24, 2006

Remembering this young hero, on the anniversary of the day he gave his life for our country, with a multitude of thanks for his service and dedication.

May God's Loving Grace and comfort continue to be with the family of Jacques E. Brunson.

Please Know he shall NEVER BE FORGOTTEN.

From the sister of a Fallen Hero, in Vietnam, many years ago.



" What we once enjoyed and deeply loved we can never lose,

for all that we love deeply becomes a part of us"

~ Helen Keller ~



May the memories of your loved one live in your heart always.

Softly and slowly....

Time heals...

ROBYN GARSIDE

July 11, 2006

MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND YOURS. I HAVE JUST LEARNED OF YOUR GREAT LOSS AND WISH TO EXPRESS MY DEEPEST CONDOLENCES. PLEASE KNOW THAT THERE ARE PEOPLE OUT HERE WHO DO CARE AND YOUR HERO WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN. HOLD TIGHT TO YOUR TREASURED MEMORIES THAT HIS SPECIAL SMILE MAY CONTINUE TO SHINE ON FOR YOUR CHILDREN. I PRAY THAT PEACE WILL FIND YOU ALL SOMEDAY. STAY STRONG AND GODSPEED. SEMPER FI



A PROUD MARINE MOM

Michael Dixon

June 27, 2006

I had the Pleasure of serving with Brunson as part of A co 2/121 INF while deployed to Iraq. My heartfelt Sympathy will forever remain with his family.

Debi Checketts

May 31, 2006

Thank Heavens the 48th Briggade is home. You should of seen the fan fair. people lined the roads with signs and flags not a pole or tree or fence was there that didn't and still has yellow ribbons on them. It was a heroes welcome for sure. As it should be. Memorial day has come and gone but the pain of the young men like our Gus not coming home is very hard to choke back. We have to remember Gus as he was a fine young man and a hero. You will forever be in my memories and your family are in my prayers. I pray the Lord comforts your family and helps them to deal with your memory and loss. I pray the Lord will bless them along the way as they will join you one day. I have to remind myself of that sometimes too. Thank you Lord for loaning your son Gus us for a while he was all you expected him to be. A wonderful son, friend, father, brother, and one heck of a soldier.

Curtis Lambert

May 28, 2006

Gus was one of the most genuinely nice and caring people I have ever met. He was the first person I met at the 229th MIBn, and I mistook him for a drill sergeant first. He was a true friend, who cared more about his kids than anything. I miss him, and I will always remember him. I will try to visit his mother this June.



Specialist Curtis A. Lambert

Susan Reynolds

March 30, 2006

Well 48th is coming home in couple of months and I am expecting Gus to come in and say this was all a joke but it finally hit today that it isn't and i want get to see him again or atleast untill I get to heaven with him. But is is really going to hurt when they come back and you are not with them. I send my prayer to your family because I know it will really hurt them all over again. But you died with honor and pride and loving your family all the way

Tom Gugliuzza-Smith

February 27, 2006

My heartfelt sympathy to the Brunson family in the loss of Jacques. I did not know Jacques, but my heart is broken and I am saddened for your loss of such a fine young person and hero. May God bring you peace in your heart as you reflect on all the wonderful memories you hold so close. Please know that you are in my heart and prayers.It has been 7 months since you were taken. You are a hero and you will never be forgotten.

I send each of you a hug from the most inner part of my heart.

Love and Peace

Tom



To live in the hearts

of those you leave behind

is never to die"

~Robert Orr~

Christopher Adzima

October 31, 2005

I was in Bravo Co. at the same time as Spc. Brunson, that is not saying much considering I was in the company for a year and a half, when the normal soldier stays there 3 months. Although I do not recall his face but I do recall his name. It saddens me to hear this news. I give my deepest sympathys to his family

Terri Crabbs

September 12, 2005

Hello,

I am the mother of Spc. Kyle A. Vuchak. Kyle graduated on June 9, 2005 from the Defense Language Institute in Monterey as an Arabic linguist. He sent his family the following quoted email. I felt it was important to share this with Spc. Brunson's family.



"Then Private First Class Jacques Brunson arrived at Bravo Co. 229th MI BN, Defense Language Institute, Monterey California at or around the first week of January, 2004. He had joined the Georgia National Guard in the hopes of furthering himself by taking advantage of the Army's linguist training. He was a butcher by trade as well as a father. He liked going out to eat, and on many occasion he lead phase 5 expeditions down Franklin hill into Monterey to give his fellow soldiers a decent alternative to cafeteria food. I was on at least three of those expeditions and I later took Kate (Kyle's wife) to all three restaurants (the Bistro, Goomba's and Peter B's).



Around April of 2004 PFC Brunson was "rolled" out of Russian class, despite his best efforts. I personally witnessed his diligent and relentless study during the 18 hour CQ shift that we pulled together, my first CQ shift in the Army. Because the Georgia National Guard had already spent a large amount of money on him and had received nothing in return, someone in the Peach State opted to send him to infantry school, as any more language training would have been a waste.



Given my outlook on humanity I would hope that when I say that someone is a genuinely good person, my saying that would carry some weight.



Brunson was a good man, the kind of guy who, once he got his bearings in Bravo Co., always went out of his way to make sure that his "battle buddies" were "squared away."



I guess you know where I am going with this and what is at the end of the links I am sending you."



- After I read this, I cried like I had never cried before. I didn't know Spc. Brunson, but it doesn't matter. He was a real person, not just another number. My son put life into perspective for me that night.



My family extends their heartfelt sympathies to the family of Specialist Jacques E. Brunson.

Lisa

September 7, 2005

I had the pleasure of being an "adopted sister" by Gus and crew. I was thinking today that it was close to 20 years that I have know Georgia (that makes me feel VERY old. All I can say is that I love all of them like they are my family. I grew up with all of them. Anytime I spent the night at their house, it was a GUARANTEE that there would be some serious CARPET BURNS, BRUISES, KISSES and WET WILLIES!!!!! Gus picked on me and treated me the same way her treated Georgia. Some times that was good. . . sometimes it WASN'T!! All in all, I will miss Gus Gus!!! He had a smile that would light up the room and would make your day!! To my extened family. . . I have said it so much, but you all know that if there is anything that I can do for ya'll. . . I am just a phone call away!!! I love ya'll!!! Lisa

Gloria Stephens

September 5, 2005

I first met Gus when his sister, Georgia, started dating my brother, Ronnie about 15 years ago. Gus was always picking at me even at the age of 15 and continued through the years. We treated each other as if we were brother and sister and in our eyes thats what we were. We didn't spend alot of time together other than family get togethers, but we began emailing and messenging each other around April of 2003. We talked alot about any number of things. After he got deployed, we talked more. He would send me a message... if he wanted to just chat, discuss the toys that he ask us to send, to get in touch with his sister if he didn't have time to wait for an email response. There were times where I had her on the phone and was relaying messages back and forth. He once told me to tell her to get messenger so he wouldn't have to bother me so much... my reply was that he never bothered me. I enjoyed our conversations. I had the privilege of chatting with him about an hour and a half just a few days before he was taken from us. I miss his little comments that he sent me all the time(in the middle of the night sometimes). I hurt not only for myself... but for his children Kayla and Jake, his dad Jeff, his mom Cathy, his sisters Georgia and Jennifer and his brother Chris. I love you all! We all have memories of Gus... but the one that I've heard over and over is the way he always had that grin across his face. He was truly loved by many and will always be remembered! ILY Gus!

Georgia York

September 5, 2005

To all those who have signed, thank you for the love and support given to my family at this time. To have my little brother remembered in such honorable and fond memories does much to warm my heart. He was always the first one to pick on me, but also the first to help me stand straight no matter what came--his spirit has been doing that alot lately. For the man who helped all without notice we honor him by letting the world know. Gus was a good friend, lovable brother, outstanding dad, and treasured son. Remember to support the freedom he died trying to protect. God bless and remember the man.Sincerely, "Big Sis" Georgia

Debi Owens/Checketts

September 3, 2005

I had the opportunity of watching Gus Grow up as a friend of my daughters (April Parker) and others. I will never forget this fine young man. That smile he always had is what I will remember. Sly like a fox. I remember his family well and pray that the Lord comforts you at this time. Remember to celebrate Gus's life every day. He will remain in your hearts always as he will remain in mine and in my memories and in the hearts and memories of everyone who knew him.

felisha honeyman

August 26, 2005

i knew gus every since i was 13 he was the first guy i ever dated and he will be deeply missed. gus was someone who could always make you feel better no matter what. his smile , his laugh and those pretty blue eyes i will always remember . you could'nt help but love him he was just that kind of man . i recently started something in memory of him in americus called "gifts for gus" i hope that it does well and helps those who didnt know him as well as i did remember who he was at what he did for us all.

Chaplain Dan Gates (GASSAAR)

August 20, 2005

I have just learned of the death of Spc. Jacques E. Brunson. As the State Chaplain of the Georgia Sons Of The American Revolution and speaking for our President, George Thurmond and more than 1,400 SAR members around the State of Georgia, may I most humbly express the condolences of a grateful Society. Spc. Brunson, wrapped in the integrity of service to our nation and the inestimable values of duty, honor and country, stood on a wall of freedom for us all. His life and his love of country epitomized every attribute of patriotism the Sons Of The American Revolution hold dear. And, as Americans, we could never repay the debt we owe him ..!! Nor the debt we owe you… his family!!!

April Parker

August 19, 2005

Gus was a wonderful person and he is greatly missed. He always had a smile and a quip ready for any situation. He was sincere and giving until his last days, and he will always be remembered as being that. I never told him that I loved him, but I think he knew it anyway.

Jesse and Kendra Turner

August 12, 2005

Cathy and family, our prayers are with you. Gus was a wonderful person and will be missed by all. God bless you.

Holly Johnston

August 8, 2005

To the family, Gus was a very good friend and is very close to my heart. I will love and miss him alot. You are all in my thoughts and prayers, and thank you for giving us a good friend.

MM1 (SW) Richard Jackson, USN

August 6, 2005

I met Gus' father, Jeff Brunson, at the Flash Foods in Sylvester a couple days after he passed and I was so moved at how his father's love came across. I attended the funeral today and it was very dear and touching and I was so very glad to have been there and to show my support for the family.

Susan Carter

August 5, 2005

I went to school with Gus from 6th grade until we graduated in 1994. We were in the same running crowd. I have a picture of us at our Junior Homecoming. It is a group picture with about 15 people. I have looked back at that picture alot this week.



I guess we will never realize how great a person is until they are gone.



Susan Carter (Carver)

Jacob Reynolds

August 4, 2005

I love you and miss you Uncle Gus. I pray that God put Angels around the family..

Millard Kirkland

August 2, 2005

I knew Gus when I was 15 and after about a year, we lost contact with each other. Then I ran into him in California at Ft. Irwin. I immediately recognized him and we began chatting about the good ole days like we had never lost contact. I'll always remember Gus and try to keep his memory alive. I admire him greatly. He died honorably as a true soldier.

Jeff Paquet

August 1, 2005

My thoughts and prayers are for the family and friends. I've known Gus for about 8 years and he is a good friend. He will be missed by all!!!!!

Katrina Camp

July 31, 2005

My name is Katrina, my husband is James. We are both longtime friends and “adopted” family of Spc. Brunson who was killed Sunday in Iraq. My husband grew up with him, has known him since junior high, and remained close to him right up to his death. I met him ten years ago and have been convinced he was invincible ever since.

Those who knew him or knew of him called him Gus and remembered him for his smile. And they will all agree, Gus was a HERO before he enlisted in the Guard. He went through hell to be a good father to his children and to spend time with them. He worked himself ragged trying to do what was right, despite the opposition.

I cannot believe that Gus ever met someone who didn’t end up loving him in some way. He just had that personality. He maintained his boyhood friendships here in Worth County and Albany, continuing to be close to each one of us. And wherever he went – Florida, South Carolina, California, Texas, Iraq – he made new friends and shared his life with others. When Gus walked into a room, he had a smile that went from ear to ear, changing the shape of his face and making everyone else’s day a little better. He was rarely unhappy or sad and always kept a positive attitude. He took good care of himself and of his children and his family and friends. He could always be counted on to be there, to do what was right, to work harder than anyone else, to smile at you and turn your world upside down.

Everyone, please, take a moment to think of Gus, his family, his children, his friends, and to say a prayer that the soldiers in Iraq and other places of danger are kept safe for this night in honor of Gus. Ask those who knew Gus to take time out of each day to remember his smile and to REMEMBER him always.

Cathy, Jeff, Georgia, Chris and all the others, please know that our hearts are with you and we are praying for strength for you all. We love you all like family and we are so thankful that we had time to know Gus and to know what a wonderful man he was. Thank you for making him who he was and for allowing us into your lives. God Bless you all!

Susan Reynolds

July 31, 2005

I am one of Gus Brunson's dear friends and it is a tragic time for everyone whom has lost love one but I just wanted to let the woman that put the memory about the quilts I am contacting the family about it tomorrow I think it is a lovely thing for someone to express there care more less gradatude and God bless you and everyone whom makes thiese quilts. Also we are putting together a scrap book for his kids when they get older anyone whom has anything they want the family to know about Gus or any pictures or just want to express their symphthy please email them to me at [email protected] . thank you Susan Reynolds

Eileen and Bill Jeker

July 31, 2005

Our sincere deepest condolences are extended to the family of another fall hero from two very grateful Americans. Jacques, may you rest in peace.

Cheryl Hart

July 30, 2005

Mrs. Brunson,

I did not know your son or do not know you but I would like to convey my deepest sympathy to you and your family at this time. My heartfelt gratitude goes to your son and what he and others like him are doing to protect us and keep us free while trying to provide freedom for the children of the future of Iraq. I also would love to present you with a Quilt of Honor in remembrance of your son,Spc. Jacques Brunson, for the price he paid for us. My church make the patriotic quilts to give to the family members to offer some comfort to them. When the time is right, please contact me or have someone from your family contact me at 478-552-5095 to make arrangements for delivery of the quilt. Again my sympathies go to you and your family and his children.

Sincerely, Cheryl Hart

Showing 1 - 60 of 60 results

Make a Donation
in Jacques E. Brunson's name

How to support Jacques E.'s loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor Jacques E. Brunson's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sponsored

Sign Jacques E. Brunson's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

May 30, 2024

Chaplain Clemens posted to the memorial.

January 29, 2023

peggy pollock posted to the memorial.

December 2, 2021

Charlie Gili posted to the memorial.