Bruce Pieratt

1946 - 2025

Brigadier General Bruce Wayne Pieratt, devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away in Lexington, Kentucky, on Sunday evening, August 17, 2025, just one day after celebrating his 79th birthday. His larger-than-life personality, zest for living, deep generosity, and steadfast devotion to family, faith, and community left an indelible mark on all who knew him.

Born August 16, 1946, in Lexington, Bruce was the son of Henry Frank Pieratt and Virginia Henderson Pieratt. He was raised in a close-knit, loving home with his siblings Tom Ashford (Polky), Steve Pieratt, and Brenda Cox (David). From an early age, Bruce's character was shaped by integrity, hard work, and a calling to encourage others.

A proud graduate of Lafayette High School, Bruce met his lifelong love and future wife, Patricia "Patsy" Maxwell Pieratt, in the seventh grade. A gifted athlete, he earned All-City, All-Central Kentucky, and All-State honors in football under the mentorship of his hero, Coach Roy Walton. His talent and determination earned him a full athletic scholarship to Oklahoma State University, where he played four years of football under Coach Phil Cutchin. As one of only fifteen players from his class to finish all four years, Bruce embodied his lifelong mantra: "If he can do it, I can too." He was awarded All Big 8 Academic Team, one of four players to receive the honor. Beyond athletics, he found brotherhood as a proud member of Sigma Nu Fraternity, cultivating friendships he cherished for a lifetime.

After graduating, Bruce returned home to Lexington, where he married Patsy and began his career at the family business, Pieratt's, Inc., founded in 1946 by his father. Working alongside his father, brothers, brother-in-law, and nephews, Bruce's leadership and vision helped to grow the company into one of Central Kentucky's most trusted retailers. Known for its slogan, "Nobody Beats Pieratt's," the business thrived on Bruce's belief that relationships mattered more than transactions. He often reminded customers, "I'd rather have your friendship than your business."

In 1968, Bruce joined the Army National Guard, beginning a distinguished military career that reflected his deep patriotism and love for his country. His service culminated in the honor of being promoted to Brigadier General-a recognition he accepted with humility, always valuing the camaraderie and bonds of service over rank or title.

Bruce's love for the Bluegrass ran deep. A loyal supporter of the University of Kentucky, he was active in the UK Fellows Society, the K Club, and the Wildcat Club. His leadership extended far beyond athletics, serving on the Central Bank Lexington Advisory Board, the Better Business Bureau of Central and Eastern Kentucky, Pyramid Club, and numerous community organizations. Widely respected as a leader, mentor, and friend, Bruce's influence was felt across the Commonwealth.

Bruce had a passion for thoroughbred racing, boating and spending time filling friends and families lives with laughter.

Of all his accomplishments, Bruce was most proud of his family. He often said his greatest joy in life was raising three strong, independent daughters-Nicole Pieratt, Noel Pieratt Daniel (John Daniel), and Nalise Pieratt Baker (True Baker). His role as "Bootsea" to their eight grandchildren was his most cherished title. He celebrated their academic, athletic, and personal milestones with boundless pride and was a fixture at their games and events. His grandchildren-Hutton, Briggs, Woodson, Woodford, Smith, Lawson Bruce, Gentry, and Gates-were the lights of his life.

Whether known as Bruce, "the General," "Batman," or simply "Bootsea," he inspired everyone he encountered with his warmth, humor, leadership, and enthusiasm. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched and in the family he so deeply loved.

A memorial service and celebration of Bruce's remarkable life will be held at the Thoroughbred Club of America in Lexington, KY on Sunday, August 24, 2025 at 1:30 p.m. Bruce gave to so many causes, therefore in lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to a charity meaningful to you.