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BORN
1932
DIED
2019
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Bruce Williams Obituary
New Port Richey, FL - Bruce H. Williams, age 86 of New Port Richey, Florida, died on Saturday, February 9, at his home after a brief illness. Born February 18, 1932, Williams grew up in East Orange, New Jersey and went on to become one of the country's top radio talk show hosts. For more than 29 years the legendary Williams started his nationally syndicated show by slipping behind the microphone and saying, "Welcome my friends-welcome to my world."
Spanning a career that lasted more than three decades, Bruce Williams created a loyal listenership hundreds of thousands of people strong with his informative and entertaining program, delivered in his signature deep, warm, welcoming voice.
But, one of the most unusual and remarkable facts surrounding Williams' Hall of Fame radio career is that it did not begin until he was well into his forties.
Blessed with an innate sense of business, at age 11, he devised a way to address one of the many shortages common at the end of World War II by melting down lead pipes and casting them into toy soldiers. Eyes wide open, he was off and running, pursuing every avenue where he believed a profit could be made.
After serving in the Air Force during the Korean conflict and graduating from Newark State College (now Kean University), he opened a pre-school named after his children. He spent time driving an ice cream truck in Newark, New Jersey. He was also a taxi driver and drove a beer truck. For seventy years of his life, he spent the holiday season selling Christmas trees.
On the white-collar side, Williams sold insurance, owned a flower shop, a car rental agency, a barber shop and he owned and operated several nightclubs.
There was even a whirlwind tour into the world of politics where the Honorable Bruce H. Williams was elected to the Franklin, New Jersey Township Council, as well as serving terms as Deputy Mayor and Mayor between 1967 and 1975.
It was the weight and wealth of these life experiences that Williams relied on throughout his accomplished radio career and gave depth to his on-air persona.
His amazing career began in 1975 at WCTC 1450 Talk Radio, The Voice of Central New Jersey, where Williams hosted a show called At Your Service.
After some time, his success took him to WMCA in the Big Apple and his momentum and audience continued to build. Williams growing popularity brought him to the attention of radio executives at NBC who were searching for a host of a national nightly advice-oriented talk show. After a long selection process, Williams was chosen and his program launched in November of 1981. It was from this platform, his reputation as a broadcaster blossomed.
That blossom was almost nipped a year later, when a plane he was piloting crashed into some trees during an aborted landing attempt. Critically injured and nearly dead when he arrived at the Medical Center of Princeton, Williams rallied and was back on the air broadcasting again from his hospital room, just four weeks after the accident.
Over the next three decades, Williams' voice was heard coast-to-coast as he became one of the most listened to talk show hosts in radio history.
The industry recognized Williams' accomplishments in 1999 when he was inducted into the National Radio Hall of Fame in Chicago. Trade-Industry Publication Talkers Magazine also honored Williams in 2002 by including him at Number Six in their list of greatest radio talk show hosts.
Not to be omitted from Williams' long list of accomplishments is the fact that he authored six financial and real estate advice books as well as a syndicated advice column called Smart Money.
Bruce H. Williams was 81 years old when he hung up his head phones for the final time in 2013, signing off as he always did by saying, "Keep in touch."
Bruce is survived by his loving wife of more than twenty years, Susan. Children Matthew, Mark (Michelle), Robbins, Kelly and Michael (Kristie), grandchildren Brendan, Thomas, Lane, Hooker, Piper, Anders and Everett as well as many lifelong friends and business associates, most especially Steve Belly. Bruce is preceded in death by his parents Florence E. and Harold R. Williams; his brother Walter; his first wife Ruthann; and grandson Mustang.
The family will receive guests on Saturday, February 16, 2019 from 9am until 11am at Gleason Funeral Home, 1360 Hamilton St., Somerset, NJ 08873 (732-545-0700). The Funeral Service will take place at 11am. Graveside Services will follow immediately at Elm Ridge Cemetery in North Brunswick.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Pasco County Florida Animal Shelter at www.FPCAS.org or K9 Partners for Patriots at www.K9partnersforpatriots.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Bruce Williams
Sponsored by Gleason Funeral Home of Somerset.
Cherie Thorne (Jeffery)
March 9, 2025
I worked for Bruce in his office from 1984-1988 in New Brunswick, New Jersey while I was a student at Rutgers. It was the best job a university student could have with lots of unusual perks, including being taken for a flight over Manhattan by his son. When my parents came to visit me at university, Bruce invited them to the live broadcast of one of his shows at Rockefeller Plaza. It was a highlight of their first visit to New York. RIP to a one of a kind man.
John Smith
February 7, 2025
I started listening to Bruce in the mid 1980s. He was a constant companion each evening on my drive home from work. He gave wonderful, sage advice...much of which is still relevant today. Some old show are still available for youTube. Will always love you Bruce. May you live in eternal peace.
https://www.youtube.com/@TalkNetTapes
Cam
August 20, 2024
I randomly thought of Bruce Williams today, and stumbled onto this obituary. Bruce entertained and educated me on my long and often stressful nightly commutes many years ago. As a young adult I took in so many financial and miscellaneous tips that my near 90 minute drive often times seemed justified. From his unique ability to deliver stern advice to callers without condescension, to his stories about his Boston Terrier buddy, I enjoyed and am grateful for those many hours listening on the radio. Thank you, Bruce!
Larry Joseph
February 7, 2024
Great radio show, long ago!
Stephen Prunty
July 31, 2023
I listened to Bruce Williams for many years and recently found recordings of his Talknet shows on youtube that I am still listening to. Bruce your sage advice still rings true even today. Perhaps your best advice that I remember is "If you don't ask you don't get." I still live life by these wise words today and have passed on this gem of wisdom to both my young sons. Bruce you will not be forgotten and anywhere I go I still reference you in conversation so that the generations to come can learn to appreciate you.
Ahmad K Altaf
July 5, 2023
I spent numerous nights listening to Mr. William's
talk show, always looked forwards to that hour of the day & learned a lot from his advice.
Ahmad K Altaf , Connecticut.
Jeff Cohen
January 2, 2023
Many great nights listening to his voice
John Cmelik
December 22, 2022
Listened to Bruce every day he was the best! I would go for a walk every day with my radio ear phone an listen faithfully. My wife would tell people looking for me that I was on a walk with Bruce when I was on my walk. Had the privilege of talking to him on the show, a highlight of my life. Mr. Williams was a great one.
NANCY BURTON
October 2, 2022
Going through some old photos, I have one of Bruce and I when I met him in person at a local radio show event. I lost track of Bruce's show in the late 1990s, but I spent many an evening listening to his wise words. The best advice I ever heard him give was to a person who called him regarding his financial troubles. Bruce asked the caller how many jobs he had. The caller said he worked full time. Bruce replied, "You have more time than money. Get a second job and pay off your debts." He then went on to say that it wouldn't be easy, but it wouldn't last forever, and his short term effort would give him self satisfaction at paying off his debt. Over the years, I've passed on this advice to those who find themselves in the same situation, and I will always remember his simple solution to a common problem. I've always enjoyed his radio show; may he rest in peace.
Tom Miltenberger
February 6, 2022
I still listen to Bruce Williams on YouTube when I´m doing work in the kitchen, exercising my knee, and admire his breadth of knowledge and experience he had in so many business matters. His kids should have a course in business schools about the success he had in business with all the enterprises he was involved in over the decades.
Christopher
August 30, 2021
Thank you for being my alternative dad .
Tom Ostwald
July 26, 2021
I just saw Bruce passed. I traveled for work and spent many hours at night driving and was always excited when I could get Bruce´s show on the radio. I knew it was going to make my drive so much quicker and enjoyable. I always liked how he called every attorney he talked to counselor. He gave great advice that I used several times specifically always hiring an attorney in any real estate transactions and it saved my butt more than once.
RIP Bruce, there will never be another like you. Wheels up!!!
Tom Miltenberger
April 17, 2021
I was just thinking of Bruce and looked up his name on google. I used to listen to him in the 1980s after I had finished work and was driving home. his calls were mostly very interesting and he gave sage advice on careers and business matters. He really deserved every accolade he received. My wife and I moved from TX to Southern CA in 1994, and I could not find him on the radio there, so I lost touch. I had my own business there, and did well, and I still wanted to hear him talk about business problems and how to solve them and make things happen. if there is any way to listen to his previous shows , I would like. to pay for that service. Although this is very late, I would want to still give my condolences to his family. He was a national treasure for anyone wanting to better them self in life.
Robert Snyder
April 17, 2021
so sorry to hear Bruce Williams Died , I just heard him yesterday on you tube ......He Gave Great Advice To People ....I Used To Listen To Him In The 80'S .......He Will Be Missed ........
Maria Berggren
March 31, 2021
I'm so sorry to hear of Bruce's passing, and so late. My Dad listened to him all the time, out in his shop, or on the road.
He was the staple of talk radio throughout the 1980s and on, and fostered my love for the medium.
I imagine Bruce was a much-needed father figure to so many young men and women. He listened attentively and gave wise advice, not just about finances, but on relationships and maintaining a healthy set of values.
His voice was a balm for the world, and he has been -- and will continue to be -- missed.
-Maria Berggren
Oregon
Stephen cobb
March 18, 2021
I first started to listen to Bruce in 1995 in Ithaca, NY until he retired from radio. I learned so much from his life’s experiences and wisdom from a life well lived.
Funny—I had moved to New Port Richey, FL in 2005 and unknown to me he actually lived about a quarter of a mile from me on Troublecreek Road. Truly a small world after all.
Stephen Cobb
New Port Richey, Florida
Stephen cobb
March 18, 2021
I first started to listen to Bruce in 1995 in Ithaca, NY until he retired from radio. I learned so much from his life’s experiences and wisdom from a life well lived.
Funny—I had moved to New Port Richey, FL in 2005 and unknown to me he actually lived about a quarter of a mile from me on Troublecreek Road. Truly a small world after all.
Stacy Zimmerman
February 13, 2021
Bruce Williams Was One-of-a-Kind
I was thinking the other day about how I enjoyed listening to Mr. Williams back in the late '90's. I performed a search and discovered his passing. I offer my deepest sympathy to his family. Now, every night, before I go to bed I listen to his archives in three hour blocks. I enjoy it as much today as I did years ago. I am so grateful that I can continue to be "welcomed to his world!" Bless Mr. Williams and his family.
Kevin Kasperson
January 26, 2021
My wife and I credit our abilities to manage finance directly to his nightly show.I personally acquired his saying of “you know where I’m going with this” when I talk to people as he said numerous times on his show.Love ya man.
George Flessas
December 20, 2020
Bruce Williams Made Me Rich
About 25 years ago (age 26) , I phoned Bruce's radio show to ask about a management problem regarding some houses I owned and rented. Within 20 minutes (aside of the original topic question), Bruce gave me some solid advice that turned my amateur real estate pursuit into a significant life-long success. He followed up the call a few days later (by mail) with an autographed photo. The photo remains on the wall in my home today. Bruce was a good man. I still listen to his re-run shows today.
Greg Carnal Sr
December 2, 2020
As a long haul trucker you and I traveled all of North America together. I enjoyed your common sense advice. I called into “Talk net” twice for your advice. Both times your sage thoughts helped me save a boatload of money. God’s speed Bruce, Rest In Peace.
Timothy Ryan
November 24, 2020
I loved listening to Mr. Williams. I learned a lot from him.
Mark Moffett
April 28, 2020
I listened to Bruce when he was originally on Talknet and followed him when he went out on his own. His intelligence, compassion, and humor always made his shows interesting, entertaining, and informative. I bought his book "thanks for asking" and read it straight through in two days. I am proud to say I was a fan of Bruce Williams.
Bob Reynolds
April 7, 2020
Bruce phoned me one day.
I used to drive across the country in the Midwest and I would search for Bruce's show as I drove... losing the signal in one town and picking it up in the next town. XMRadio made it possible to listen to his entire show as I drove.
He was my favorite... his voice and his personality and his knowledge hooked me. I listened whenever I could.
At one time I sent an email to his company to complain about something. It didn't relate to Bruce... it related to one of his advertisers.
A few weeks later when I was eating lunch at a Wendy's, my cell phone rang... a number I didn't recognize... and this VOICE came through my phone.
I was instantly stunned.
I knew IMMEDIATELY that it was Bruce Williams. I was flabbergasted! I was surprised that I could even speak.
I left my food on the table and quickly headed outside where I could actually talk to one of my hero's.
I knew that he was into bicycling in those years, so I asked him about that. It was a cool experience.
I was shaking when I got off of the phone and went back into Wendy's. I checked my phone and found that the conversation had lasted over 3 minutes. Bruce was talking to ME for 3 minutes.
I still remember that event 21 years later.
He was the best. Seriously, the best.
Vance Cerasini
March 30, 2020
Bruce's radio program helped buoy me through a tough time in my life. His voice provided me with a warm and safe place that I could count on
Greg Skurka
March 2, 2020
I'm so sorry to hear of his passing , He was good friends with my parent when they lived in East Brunswick, NJ, and they stayed friends for a long time after that . Always playing penny ante poker with my parents when I was a kid . Will miss him.
My condolences to his family
Greg
Brian Atra
February 4, 2020
Interesting man. Character.
He was ahead of his time, yet behind the times.
Unique.
Gregg Adler
November 21, 2019
Bruce was my favorite business professor even though he never granted anyone college credit. Learned most of what I know about personal finance from him starting in 1982 on KSTP 1500 in MSP. Use to listen to the show most nights commuting home from sports officiating jobs. Learned not to be suckered into a timeshare (handy when we went to Hawaii), smart borrowing vs. dumb borrowing, entrepreneurship and general investing and personal finance. I emailed him when he had his podcast in 2009 about how to inspire students in my inner-city personal finance class. He read my email to his podcast audience and called me personally to discuss the topic. How cool was that. Great voice, great advice, first ballot Hall of Famer for sure!
October 31, 2019
Bruce,you were and always
Wil l
be a National treasure. Thanks for the advice and memories all of your
fans will remember. Your ocean trips were a blast.
Bradley S. Smith
September 15, 2019
A real compassionate kind-of-guy with true class who always showed true interest & didn't alienate his audience, esp. when calling-in. He really could relate to people & bring out the best in them. (Something widely absent in talk-radio anymore.)
Aside his distinguished, personal accomplishments to include being a private pilot & his induction in the Radio Hall of Fame in '99 & a well-distinguished career, Bruce touched the hearts of so many & when that day came, both on & off air, up till the very end, we just couldn't let go & thirsty for more of that all too familiar voice of Bruce Williams.
On a personal level, Bruce is well-respected by the broadcast tech. & engineer community, including myself, after earning all the FCC licensing required to operate/maintain broadcast station equipment far back where it all began & a star was soon to be born.
May God bless you Bruce & thinking of all the friends & family of real down-to-Earth kind of guy.
...& thank you for welcoming us in to your world my friend!
M Palafox
July 27, 2019
Godspeed Bruce! You got me through many study sessions in my college days. Your advice was always spot on. You saved my family from losing money when my father died suddenly. Thank you. God bless you and your family.
Jon Sharp
July 6, 2019
Just learned of his passing and had to remove my hat somewhere online. Mr Williams taught me much that I have used throughout my life. I started listening as a teen in the 80's and still think of his advice in different areas as my life progresses. He was a rare personality that could make anyone fell like a friend though he didn't know them, and could be a teacher to millions even though he himself was constantly moving and learning. I have an autographed photo that I will always treasure. My sincerest condolences to his family.
May 25, 2019
I am saddened to learn of his passing. He was a true legendary talk show host... In the late night of my youth
Pete Ciallella
May 20, 2019
I listened to Bruce for years. I used to listen to Bruce on my long drive home from work. I learned a lot from Bruce about finances and life in general. He will be missed. RIP Bruce.
Sue Bigsby
May 20, 2019
I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Mr Williams. He was like a close personal friend/second father to his many fans and listeners. His calming voice and solid advice kept me company on many cross country driving trips and through personal bumps on the road of life. I called into his show twice and, as always, his advice was spot on. Until you can again welcome us into your world, Godspeed and happy trails, Mr Williams. To Susan, the children and grands, thank you for sharing your beloved husband, father and grandfather. Sue Bigsby, Orlando, FL
Shawn wilber
May 20, 2019
One of the greatest talk show Host of all time to Bruce's family I am sorry for your loss
Kevin Turk
May 17, 2019
I just learned today, May 17, that Bruce passed in February. So sad.
I'm a 60 year man who spent much of my younger years listening to Bruce while my friends all listened to FM radio. No other single person has influenced my life as much as Bruce has. I even use to set up a tape recorder to automatically tape shows that i was going to miss.
I'll always be grateful. Hopefully, today when I look in the mirror, I see a man and not a boy.
Thanks Bruce.
Elizabeth Brown
May 8, 2019
I just saw this and am saddened deeply with the loss of this great man. My husband and I loved listening to his show and were actual callers several times. We missed listening to him when he retired from his radio show.
May 8, 2019
Kenneth gray, RIP Mr Williams
Jonathan Higdon
May 3, 2019
The greatest talk radio host of all time! Everyone that listened, including me felt like we knew him personally. What a loss for America! RIP Mr. Williams. You are missed!
Ronald Smith
April 27, 2019
You are the best rest in peace man.
David Bloom
March 23, 2019
Just learned of Bruce's passing..His wisdom and advice were one of a kind. Truly a legend that will be missed.
Curt McCormick
March 15, 2019
Sorry to hear of Bruce's passing. I listened to him from the time I was a young kid until my late 40's when he signed off for the last time. The life lessons that he taught me over the years all while helping other people will stick with me forever. I feel like I owe part of who I am today to Bruce. Although I had never met him in person, I always felt like I knew him. He always seemed like that uncle that had made it in life and wanted to be sure that everyone else learned from his mistakes and successes. My condolences to the Williams family. He will be sadly missed.
March 12, 2019
The best. Extremely wise man. Thanks for sharing your wisdom with us.
February 28, 2019
Bruce, you are sorely missed.
February 24, 2019
What a great man. Immeasurable impacy on so many lives. See you on the other side, tiger.
February 22, 2019
My heartfelt condolences to Bruce's family. I loved listening to Bruce during the 80's. He always gave wonderful, practical, great advice on a variety of subjects. May he RIP. There will never be another Bruce. He was one of a kind.
February 13, 2019
My sincere condolences to the family. May the God of comfort give you the strength and endurance to help you heal from the loss of your love one.
February 13, 2019
My name is sunny from Hopatcong New Jersey. I have listened to Bruce since the 1980s. I saw him many times at Disney and at his jelly rolls restaurants. He always took time to talk to people who had come to see him. He just did so much for so many of us. I am so saddened to hear the news. My prayers are with all of his family.
Susan Bell
February 13, 2019
I remember listening to Bruce for years, an incredible man with such a wealth of knowledge and so entertaining. I started listening about the time of his crash and broadcasting from home.
A life well lived, my condolences to his family.
February 13, 2019
Kind thoughts are with the Family at this very difficult time. May your fond memories bring you comfort, and God's promise at Jeremiah 29:11,12 will give you strength.
February 13, 2019
To the family of Bruce Williams.
May the God of all comfort, give
your family a measure of comfort.
at this time in your lives. Please
read. 2 Corinthains 1:3,4. It will
give you added comfort.
E. Jackson
Newark, NJ
RON COULTER
February 13, 2019
I absolutely loved listening to Bruce from my late teens until his final show. Long before the internet and the proliferation of business news on cable, he was a great source of inspiration and practical know-how for budding entrepreneurs, in addition to being a really interesting guy to listen to.
His quote (involving a muddy dog and his new Jaguar)"never love anything that can't love you back" is advice I have often repeated.
Condolences to his family.
Joe Haffner, Kirksville, MO
Joe Haffner
February 13, 2019
Thanks Bruce! I've been a lifelong fan of your work and your ethics. I first started listening to you at age 11 and continued to listen to you all the way through your podcasts. The world of radio will never be the same.
Dave Capitola
February 13, 2019
Truly a wonderful person.I was fortunate to listen to him daily for years.Condolences to the family.
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Gleason Funeral Home of Somerset1360 Hamilton St., Somerset, NJ 08873
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