Bruce Fernald Morrison

Bruce Fernald Morrison cashed in his chips on March 24, 2025, at the age of 77 in Salt Lake City, Utah, after a battle with cancer.

Bruce was a lovable giant-literally and figuratively. Standing tall in stature and sass, his sharp wit, endless stories (some suspiciously larger-than-life), and a never-ending supply of humor made him the kind of person you couldn't forget even if you tried-which no one wanted to. He was a one-man comedy show who roasted himself better than anyone else could.

Though he rarely asked for anything (except maybe your dessert), Bruce gave endlessly to his family, his students, his ITK fraternity brothers, residents at Friendship Manor, "consumers (explained later)," and anyone else lucky enough to cross his path. His final request? Just be kind. It's easier than you think, folks. Just do it.

Bruce entered this world on January 30, 1948, in Astoria, Queens, New York. From day one, he had a heart geared toward service, especially in education and advocacy. For nearly 40 years, he taught special needs children and teens in Schenectady, shaping minds and probably confusing them with his sarcasm in equal measure. Even outside the school bells, underprivileged students found the father they never had through the various summer and after-school programs he was involved in.

He didn't stop there. For 25 years, Bruce worked at Living Resources group home, supporting adults with disabilities who referred to themselves as "consumers". He even found time to go toe-to-toe with developers as part of Citizens Against Rotterdam Mall, fighting to protect an aquifer. In his later years, he reigned as "El Presidente" of the Friendship Manor Residents Association.

Not content with just one act, Bruce donated his body to science at the University of Utah, proving he gave everything he had, right down to the bone. Students, enjoy learning from the most sarcastic cadaver in the West.

Education-wise, Bruce graduated from East Meadow High School in 1966, earned a BA in Psychology from SUNY Oneonta in 1970 (where he also was a proud charter member of the Iota Tau Kappa fraternity and played on the undefeated Oneonta State freshman basketball team), and followed it up with a Master's in Special and Elementary Education from SUNY Buffalo in 1971.

He loved sports (often vocally), games of chance (he would cheat at bingo), and time with people-especially his three sons and his beloved grandkids, who were his pride, joy, and unpaid tech support.

Bruce leaves behind his sons Jonathan (Joellyn), Daniel, and Evan Morrison; his granddaughters Lillyann Rose, London Piper, and Millie Elizabeth Morrison; his sister Patricia Fox (Richie); his sister-in-law Carole (Robert Jr.); cousins (MJ), nieces, nephews, and their families; and his former wife Elizabeth. He was also preceded by his parents, Robert and Ida Morrison, his brother Robert Morrison Jr., and his Aunt Marion Drage, who are now stuck with him.

Bruce will be missed, remembered, and quoted forever. His legacy lives on in laughter and love.

Be Kind. Love Thy Bruce.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Bellport Country Club (40 S Country Rd, Bellport, NY 11713) on April 26th, 2025, from 1 to 4 p.m. Bring stories, photos, and your best Bruce impressions. RSVP or send memories to lovethybruce at gmail dot com.