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1947 - 2017
1947 - 2017
Obituary
Guest Book
1947
2017
133 Entries
Jimmy Speed
May 11, 2024
I never knew Colonel Bruce but heard lots about him from 2015 to 2017 from his wife, Sarah, (my cousin I connected with via Ancestry). I hope Sarah and the rest of Bruce's family are doing okay.
January 29, 2018
The retired Colonel was remembered on the Grammy's last evening Jan 28 2018 for his many contributions to the music industry during the obituary part of the show.
Jeff Bean
July 6, 2017
I spent many a Friday/Saturday night at the Twelfth Gate in Atlanta watching The Hampton Grease Band. Their music was sheer magic and Bruce was the mayhem in the middle of it all.
Thanks for the memories.
Terrence Corcoran
June 11, 2017
Terrence Corcoran, Sax, Vocals, and Manic Dancing.. "We'll miss you, Buddy...Save us a table...."
Laura Meyer
June 8, 2017
I truly believe that Bruce was one of those rare individuals who may have been placed on this earth, at least in part, to inspire and influence many, many people throughout his lifetime.
What a special gift to have known him even slightly.
When hearing of the circumstances of his passing I couldn't help but think that somehow he had a hand in the design of his departure. What an exit!!
My condolences and best to Jimmy and the rest of his family and friends.
Laura (originally from Atlanta)
Sherryl and Derek( toosie raised from birth)
Sherryl Major
May 23, 2017
Bruce's mom Toosie was our nanny and raised our 4 children.. we saw him at Toosie's funeral and came to his final concert at the FOX. What a legend and ICON in the music world. I haven't been the same since May 1-2...I was waiting to see himAt the private party after.. and see his brother and nephew, JIMMY AND Jesse. If they read this, or anyone knows their whereabouts, please find me on Facebook...
sherryl Wilson Major...our kids loved them beyond words...(lauren, brooke, derek and Max, who Bruce took in stage)
Michael Gallaher
May 19, 2017
My old friend Bruce Hampton
I heard the news and I cried
I knew you from way way back in the late 70s in Atlanta GA.
I saw you open the show for McCoy Tyner and his band
You and a friend were acting as tag team wrestlers and you held up the belt together and started fighting over who's belt it was!
Then you fought off stage and knocked over tables and chairs!!!!
I knew rite then......
There isn't anybody like YOU
And of coarse, you became a legend and touched so many musicians!
We had just talked on the phone like a week before the night you died ❤
I'm so sad to not be able to hear your voice and your crazy beautifulness and all the past stories we shared.
Bruce....I LOVE YA MAN and I KNOW YOU LOVED ME
RIP MY FRIEND ❤MG
Colonel Bruce at the Vista Room, Feb. 16, 2017
Ron Currens
May 16, 2017
John Charles Griffin
May 13, 2017
Col. Bruce Hampton was a friend, a creative genius, and powerful influence in American Arts & Music Culture. His presence in life is missed while forever remaining in spirit.
Grei Thomas
May 11, 2017
God Bless Col. Bruce. Thanks for the entertainment. You were an inspiration. Sincerely Greg Thomas
paul macisco
May 9, 2017
many many dancing days
had by all much love let it shine shine shine
Sumner Waite,III
May 8, 2017
I pray you are with Jesus my brother. I never danced harder than to your music...god bless you and your family...space is the place!!!
Bill Lucado
May 8, 2017
We will forever miss you my friend.❤
May 8, 2017
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Greg
May 8, 2017
Blessings to Col. Bruce's family & friends during this time. My wife & I met each other at one of Col. Bruce's shows, and the events leading up to both of us being there are akin to catching lightning in a bottle. We were blessed to have a lightning rod in the music Col. Bruce helped create to bring us together.
Very thankful God gave us one last show & one last truly wonderful memory of Bruce!
May 8, 2017
Please accept my condolences on the loss of your love one.
Larry Livingston
May 7, 2017
From meeting Bruce at Jay's meat 'n veggie to last month at Vistas/Napoleon's, toe tapping and jamming all the way, the Col. was a living legend, humble yet mysteriously brilliant. His having played against the King and His Court, and my being a baseball pitcher, he called me The King....there will be only one king, King Bruce. You inspired, mesmerized, and entertained like no other. Rest in eternal peace, my friend...you are The Legend that will live on forever. Godspeed.
Ann Walker
May 7, 2017
Dear Bruce,
I was so lucky to have criss-crossed paths with you in this lifetime. First as a teen on Seal Place in ATL, when I knew you were just looking for Wanda, but we took off to play "at" tennis anyway. Those were early wild days of Piedmont Park, the Sports Arena, etc. The last time was just a few years ago when you played the outside deck at Harbor Docks in Destin FL, and we confessed our advancing ages and all that goes along. You always inspired me to "keep it weird," but also to keep it honest, kind, and sweet, as you always were. You will be missed.
My sincerest condolences to all of your loved ones.
J. Scott Mercer
May 7, 2017
From my family to all the of Bruce's family, our sincere condloences. Bruce's countless contributions to the world through his positive and joyful artistry will reverb for eternity, as our love for him will also.
Cindy Seawell
May 6, 2017
Dear Bruce, What a privilege to meet you. My late husband, "Floyd" Loyd Seawell,( The Col called him Elvis) brought me love and the gift of friends like Col Bruce and The Unit. Some of the best times we had together were spent with these extraordinary people. Col Bruce always made me feel like a close friend even though we only saw each other on occasion when he was playing at our local club. Col Bruce had a way about him that made me want to be in his presence. He told us on the tour bus at Wake Forest Univ. "I was just in a movie, but you'll never see it". That movie was Sling Blade and he was a star! We called him Morris from then on out. I will never forget him. My prayers and condolences to his family and all of his friends and fans too. I hope no one is offended that I believe my precious Lloyd was there to greet him and after a short chat, they are playing on. Cindy Seawell Winston Salem NC
Barry Gilbert
May 6, 2017
Wow, I just found out that the Colonel passed away. I'm in shock. I guess I wanted him to live forever. I first saw him with Aquarium on the first H.O.R.D.E tour and thought he was strange and bizarre, but great. Then saw him with all the other bands he put together. Always liked seeing him live. The man is gone, but the spirit will remain. Thank you Colonel Sir. R.I.P.
May 6, 2017
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.
May 6, 2017
My condolences to Bruce's family. He was a friend and mentor to me.
Jonathan "JB" Bonds
Cool Joe
Nadine
May 6, 2017
What a tradegic loss and you might be inclined to isolate yourself during this difficult time. But pouring out your feelings to a family member to a family member or a family member or a friend will help you deal with your emotions and keep this tradgey from overwhelming you. Proverb 18:24
Lynn Kariotis
May 6, 2017
May his memory be eternal.
Prayers to the family, friends and fans. I was a late bloomer fan of his and am so glad to of heard his talent. RIP.
Jon Weiner
May 6, 2017
My sincerest sympathies to Bruce's family. I was lucky to know Bruce almost 20 years. A friend and a mentor, he will be sorely missed.
Don Cornwell
May 6, 2017
I've had the pleasure of meeting and speaking to the Col. a couple of time and I can't begin to count how many times I saw him perform. I feel so fortunate to have been present at the "Hampton 70" concert, it was truly an epic night of performances honoring him. I too have been challenged with attempting to comprehend the cosmic nature of the events of that evening, how we all could feel the love, energy, and spirit one moment...and literary know the tragedy of losing it the next. Reading remembrances from those who knew him much better than I has been helpful to me in the healing process. I think in the end, his legacy has taught me to try and be a better human...and can't we all. My sincerest condolences to his family & friends, peace be with you.
Charles A
May 6, 2017
Offering our deepest condolences to the family and friends in your hour of grief.
Turned on his lovelight and left it on
V'lilia Lark
May 5, 2017
To Pappy's family, friends, fellow musicians, crew & fellow fans.... my heart is with you all
Thank you for sharing him and his light with me. My soul is funkier for hearing him play. "I always boogie a little bit harder when he's around..." and I will continue boogie harder for him, and promise to always have my LOVELIGHT ON
Time is free~
Until we meet again☮
Turn on your love light
V'lilia Lark
May 5, 2017
I'm so glad
V'lilia Lark
May 5, 2017
Space is the place
V'lilia Lark
May 5, 2017
First song of the night!
V'lilia Lark
May 5, 2017
Steve Schrecengost
May 5, 2017
My musical life changed when I was given a promo copy of the live ARU CD by a friend who owned a record store. I played that disc for all my musician friends and not one was able to keep their jaws off the floor. Since then I was fortunate to meet him and used to plan my vacations around Codetalker tour dates in the 90's. R.I.P. Col.
Rose Duodu
May 5, 2017
The family and friends of Bruce Hampton have my deepest sympathy. May the family receive comfort and peace from the God of all comfort. 2Con. 1:3,4
Frances Hardin
May 5, 2017
The passing years have failed to dim the memory of being the seventh grade teacher of Col. Bruce Hampton. And now being thrilled at his unique, mannerly, and unassuming way of finding success. He is lodged in mind and memory as one of the unexpected rewards of teaching.
Frances Hardin, Age 91
Canton, GA
May 5, 2017
My sincere condolences to the family, friends and fans who lost their loved one to death. God will comfort and sustain you during this difficult time because he cares for you. (1 Peter 5:6,7)
Eddie Terrill
May 4, 2017
I met Bruce in 1969 when his band HAMPTON GREASE BAND played at the 12th Gate Coffeehouse on 10th street. Also, went to hear him at Piedmont Park and we crossed paths many times over the next few decades. I was in Art School and created a few flyers for his various incarnations. Then there were softball games and random meets. To me, he was the face of the Atlanta music scene with roots deep in a unique, incredibly innovative style. I'm not sure if this really happened, but I seem to recall him using a chainsaw as a musical instrument in a live performance. So proud to have known him, and the way he left us convinces me that he was very special.
Al Whitton
May 4, 2017
Bruce you were able to entertain people with your music for years, what a gift along with good times around Atlanta & we all want to thank you for the music. God Speed to Bruce
Andrew Bleke
May 4, 2017
I met Colonel Bruce backstage at Chastain in 2012. He was low key and unassuming. It was very refreshing . - ABB
May 4, 2017
Thank you Bruce. Space is the place...
May 4, 2017
I met Bruce in 1971 when he played my club in Louisville, but I saw him in New York before that. When I moved to Atlanta, he got me my first room, then my first apartment, then arranged a house deal that I bought. We played a lot of golf, and stickball on the weekends.
Everyone knows he was an amazing intellect and an brilliant observer, aside from making superb musical connections, but I want to speak about his athletic ability, which was on the upper scale.
He had amazing power in his forearms and legs, good speed and coordination. we would play stickball against New Yorkers and win. We played golf for money against good competition and won, his drives were 300+yards.
He loved eating cornbread and beans my wife cooked for him, and was always an entertaining gent to be around.
I love you Colonel, James Wolford Hardin
J P
May 4, 2017
I'm still in shock. You touched the lives of so many and your love and art spins free into the beyond. Sincerest thanks for what you did here amongst us.
Guy Goodman
May 4, 2017
Thank you for the days Bruce. Your humour, friendship and wisdom will be deeply missed.
Love,
Guy Goodman and Deborah Reece
Romy Geissler
May 4, 2017
You will be missed, Hampton.
Thanks to Tarmon, you name lives on through his son, Hampton Kelling.
May the road rise with you in your travels in your next life.
bryant hendricks
May 4, 2017
Great night, great show, what a way to go...
Mary Green
May 4, 2017
My deepest Condolence to the family of Bruce Hampton you find comfort in knowing that others shares your sorrow with you. Take Comfort in knowing that God keeps those who dies in his memory for they are precious in his eyes. Psalm 116:15
May 4, 2017
RIP Colonel you brought a lot of joy to my life thru your music. Used to see at least once a year.
Chas Roark
Jayden
May 4, 2017
I am so sorry for your great loss. May the God who "binds up the brokenhearted" and "comforts all who mourn" sustain your family during this challenging time. (Isaiah 61:1,2) With heartfelt sympathy.
Melissa Scarborough
May 4, 2017
Bruce Hampton died with all his family and friends cheering for him. It was his birthday and his journey will continue to the unknown. He will be missed by all still on this earth. He joins the rest of the musicians that have passed but never forgotten.
L W
May 4, 2017
I'm deeply sorry for his loss. Wonderful /alternative music. Different but lovely. Very creative with his strumming. Please know that the God of all comfort hears your cries and He will rescue you with comfort and strength. (Psalms 145:18,19)
May 4, 2017
Sorry for the loss but appreciative of his contributions to the arena of showmanship! Psalm 62:11,12.
May 4, 2017
My sincere condolences for your loss. May God soften your grief during this difficult time. Please be comforted in knowing how precious your loved one is in God's eyes. Psalms 116:15
Charles A
May 4, 2017
Offering our deepest condolences to the family and friends in your hour of grief.
May 4, 2017
I learned many things from Bruce, through his words, his music, his humble way of being. He has left many treasures for all of us to enjoy, and his laughter will always be present if we sit still and listen to the chaos. You blessed my life and I am grateful.
Victoia Gilleland
May 4, 2017
He was a true original. God speed. May his family find comfort in this time of sorrow.
darin hempfleng
May 4, 2017
A friend since 1991, the Col. was a man of brilliant timing, whit, love, and a talent no one who saw him could deny.Was supposed to meet up with him tomorrow (thurs). I thought " I'll see him Thursday, I don't need to ask for guest list for the Fox." It was only a couple of days. There is a huge party in rock and roll Heaven tonight. If there is one thing you could say about the Col. is he was revered by fellow musicians and they loved him. "Fixin to Die" was sung."Lord, I ain't afraid to die, I just don't want my children to cry." How fitting for an awesome legacy.Thurs May5th Napoleons in Decatur 8:30 $10 the regular Thurs. night gig will be a memorial service of sorts.
Joe Cooper
May 3, 2017
I had the pleasure of meeting Bruce a couple of years ago after he headlined a festival at Long Creek SC, what a mind. We discussed music of course and his ability to make you feel at ease impressed me immensely. Happy trails Colonel, catch ya later.
J.C.
Col Bruce Hampton being presented with a Lifer gift for 15 Jamcruises by Mark Brown and Annabelle LukinSnelling
Barbara Lefkowitz
May 3, 2017
I was on 15 Jamcruises with a Col Bruce. Everyone knew him and loved him including 30 musicians on stage when he passed and 3,000 friends in the audience,
May 3, 2017
Thank you Bruce... . . .
T Herring
May 3, 2017
So glad to have been on earth in the same period of time as Col. Bruce. Love and Light to him on his journey home and to his family and friends left here. He was a great beacon of Light for us and I have been blessed to be in his presence many times. An inspiration!
May 3, 2017
fly on, my friend...
May 3, 2017
My deepest sympathy to his family, friends and fans, I was one.
You will be missed.
Patricia King Lipton
Cathy Price
May 3, 2017
Peace with the Angels
Wiggle & Wanda Grimsley
May 3, 2017
Thank you Col. Bruce for all the wonderful musical memories for which I'm glad, I'm glad, I'm glad. His presence will always be with us as he was gracious enough to officiate our wedding. Sunday night was filled with joy and sorrow in ways only Col Bruce could bring about. We hope his family finds comfort that his last hours were spent doing what he loved surrounded by his musical family and adoring fans.
Mark Methe
May 3, 2017
I feel just like I've lost a brother. I loved him.
Tanya Love
May 3, 2017
So sorry for your loss of a great man. He taught me to love music and share it whenever you could. Peace and prayers during this time of loss. He touched many lives and his legacy will forever live on.
May 3, 2017
The Colonel was "Promoted to Glory" on the night of May 2., 2017. He will be missed.
John Grubb
May 3, 2017
Have been following Bruce since I heard him & the Grease Band in Piedmont Park in 1969. The music was always good because he was always surrounded by great musicians and his humor was totally unique. But the reason I have followed him all these years was his Buddha-like spirit. He knew something about life that most of the rest of us never really figured out. You just enjoyed being in his orbit whenever you could.
Randy Hunnicutt
May 3, 2017
RIP Colonel Bruce. Your legacy will live on forever.
May 3, 2017
Hail the Traveler!
Angie Eells
May 3, 2017
Fan of 25 years Col. You and your music will always be part of the soundtrack of my life. It was an honor to be there with you Monday night. You never really were from this world and I know your spirit and your light are off influencing the Cosmos in unmeasurable ways. We love you. You mattered. You won't be forgotten. <3
Karen Griggs Medley
May 3, 2017
A true icon of the Atlanta Music Scene, Bruce was loved by all. He will truly be missed. Sympathy extended to all family and friends who are grieving for this awesome man. Gone but never forgotten.........
May 3, 2017
Bruce will be missed. A kind soul. I met him back in the Capricorn Records days w ARU.
God Bless Bruce & his family during this tough time.
He made quite the exit and that is one uplifting memory that he was surrounded by thousands of friends, fans and family !!
RIP BRUCE
Teri Bruursema
May 3, 2017
Sincere condolences in the loss of your beloved. He was so respected and loved by his friends and peers.
Godspeed Colonel.
~ never forgotten.
T
Caroline Bond Walden
May 3, 2017
One of a kind! After 23 years, I still get told I had the BEST wedding reception ever, thanks to Col Bruce and ARU for entertaining the guests!
My last meeting with Bruce, at St. EOM's Pasaquan, Oct. 22, 2016
Tom Patterson
May 3, 2017
I was awed by Bruce as a performer for 10 years before we became friends. I remained in awe, but it was intermingled with immense fondness and great camaraderie. He forever changed the way I listened to music and saw the world. He was "gone" long before he went, but he'll certainly remain ever-present in my life.
May 3, 2017
So sorry to hear about the loss of your loved one. Please know that you are in the thoughts and prayers of many individuals who truly care about you. May the God who supplies endurance and comfort grant you peace. (Psalms 94:19)
Pat Velkavrh
May 3, 2017
I wish for healing vibes for all the friends and family ... my life has been enriched by knowing Bruce ... his influence has been enormous in many musicians and fans ... may you be at peace, we are joyful that you have this peace but we here are sad you are gone and joyful for what you gave us here in this world.
Pat (and family)
Harold Shumacher
May 3, 2017
Deeply saddened knew Bruce almost 50 years and still can't believe it. Just let me know about funeral arrangements
Alice L. Hunnicutt
May 3, 2017
Extending my deepest sympathy in the passing of this talented & unique man. Whenever I must say goodbye to one I've treasured, I take comfort in this. The promise of eternal life with our departed becomes the gift of hope. We will be reunited again in our heavenly home. My prayers are with Col. Bruce's family now & in the days to come.
Ben Tanner
May 3, 2017
It is also a tribute to Col. Bruce Hampton to say that his death was maybe the most beautiful passing most of us have ever seen. To witness it was to sense that maybe the man died of happiness! Maybe he was like Old Testament Elijah, transported to the afterlife on chariots of fire, whisked away from us at a peak moment of his life. Or maybe it was interstellar transubstantiation from bodily existence into pure musicality. Probably the latter. Either way, I can't imagine a musician who will be more missed, whose legacy will be only more and more treasured. Godspeed Col. Bruce.
cyn moore
May 3, 2017
Thank you, Col. Bruce Hampton, for a lifetime of musical memories. My deepest sympathy to the Family and dearest friends. May joyous moments bring you comfort, peace of mind, spirit and <3
Col. Bruce at the Vista Room 4/26/17
Ron Currens
May 3, 2017
I've known Bruce since 1969 and I documented his work for twenty years, starting with the Stained Souls in 1986. He has been my closest friend for well over thirty years and I cannot imagine the world without him. In Rev., Mosier's words, rather than sadness, I choose gratitude. I am so lucky to have known this incredibly creative yet gentle man for such a long time. I have experiences and stories that are unequaled, yet for the last couple of days, I have barely functioned. There is a huge empty hole in my heart, but there is some solace that the last time I spoke to Bruce, a week ago today, I had the presence of mind to tell him I loved him. I choose gratitude.
May 3, 2017
As a long time friend of Jimmy Herring, I recall the day Jimmy called me, super excited about meeting Bruce, and Aquarium Rescue. The freedom Bruce gave Jimmy to play whatever he wanted, no matter how busy, weird, outside, or silly... If that's what you hear "play it", as long as you meant it, should be a lesson for all of us... Thank you Bruce, so much for the mentoring, freedom, and joyous weirdness, you gave us. I will never forget the last time I hung with you, and thanks for dropping Jimmy off at my house so we could go fishing !! Much love and respect, to you and your family. May your Legacy live forever... Michael Shain
RAY PHILLIPS
May 3, 2017
SO SORRY ABOUT BRUCE. I WORKED WITH BRUCE MANY YEARS AGO. WE WORKED TOGETHER IN SIGHTSEEING OF ATLANTA. BRUCE WAS A GREAT GUIDE AND HAD THE PERSONALITY FOR THE JOB. RAY PHILLIPS
Tommy androvic
May 3, 2017
He was an exceptional singer and musician and I will always miss him
May 3, 2017
I would like to express my condolences for the loss of your loved one. Find solace in knowing that God shares your sorrow and wants to be a refuge for you during this difficult time. (Psalm 46:1)
matthew minshew
May 3, 2017
What a showman. Jamming until the last seconds on this earth. Rest easy Col. We all miss you.
May 3, 2017
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
May 3, 2017
Goodbye Bruce it is so sad to see him go. May the God of comfort be with his family and friends at this time of deep sorrow. God love you.
May 3, 2017
I am so sorry for your loss may you find comfort in 25:8 "He will swallow up death forever, And will wipe away the tears from all faces."
Amy Waterman
May 3, 2017
We had the privilege of knowing Bruce, not through his music, but through the friendship of cards and conversation. Always enjoyed his stories, jokes, and puzzles. Sweet man. Our thoughts are with his wife and friends.
Patricia DeStefano
May 3, 2017
So very sorry for your loss. The 121st Psalms is a very comforting and encouraging scriptural passage. Know that God cares and he will support you through these days of deep sadness. My deepest and sincere condolences to your families and friends.
May 3, 2017
He made friends and relations that lasted his life time and parting with them has brought sweet sorrow. Psalms 62:11, 12.
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