Bruce R. Devlin

Bruce R. Devlin, of Lowell, formerly a long-time resident of Wilmington, passed away peacefully at home on February 1, 2025, with his family at his side.
Bruce was born on April 1, 1948, in Newport, RI; he was the cherished only son of the late Raymond and Jacqueline (Felteau) Devlin. Bruce was raised and educated in Swansea, MA and a graduate of Joseph Case High School with the class of 1967.
Following graduation, Bruce enlisted in the United States Coast Guard on June 19, 1967, during the Vietnam War. Bruce was on active duty with the Coast Guard Transportation Department until June of 1971 when he was honorably discharged. Bruce received several commendations including the National Defense Service Medal, Coast Guard Unit Commendation Ribbon, and the Coast Guard Good Conduct Medal. He went on to serve in the Coast Guard Reserves until June of 1973.
Bruce met the "love of his life" Sharyn McKinnon while at a ship mates wedding; the two made an instant connection and the rest is history. Bruce and Sharyn married on June 24, 1972; they shared over 52 years together, raised three wonderful kids, and had many great times with family and friends throughout the years.
Bruce and Sharyn moved to Wilmington in 1977 where they raised their family. Bruce was a very devoted husband and father; he was always there to support his children no matter what they were interested in. As his family grew, he was thrilled to welcome his three granddaughters whom he adored and take on his new role as "Grampy". Bruce's family was always his priority; they shared many great times together and had a lot of fun.
Prior to retiring, Bruce worked as a Meter Mechanic for the Shell Oil Company for many years. Bruce had a great work ethic, a vast knowledge in his field, and a great personality; all qualities that made him an asset to the company.
In his spare time, Bruce enjoyed reading especially about History and was a whiz at word search puzzles. He also enjoyed following his favorite New England Teams the Boston Red Sox and the Patriots or watching his favorite golfers on television.
Bruce will be remembered for his unconditional love towards his family and friends. He was a nice guy who would help anyone in need, and he will be forever missed by all who knew and loved him.
Bruce was the beloved husband of Sharyn Devlin, devoted father of Elizabeth Stockbridge and husband Robert of Woburn, Christine Riopel and husband John of Pelham, NH, and Timothy Devlin of Woburn. Loving "Grampy" of Lilliana Riopel, Aislinn Riopel, and Sophia Stockbridge. Special brother of Barbara Dion and husband Raymond of Pinellas Park, FL and Kathleen Paddon and husband Robert of Brooklyn CT. Dear brother-in-law of Mary McKinnon, Patricia Alloway, Judy and Steven Sullivan, Jimmy and Sheila McKinnon, the late Catherine McKinnon, and Peggy and John Cummings. Bruce is further survived by many nieces, nephews, and their families.
Family and friends will gather for a Funeral Mass at St. Dorothy's Church, Main St. (Rte. 38), Wilmington, on Friday, February 7th at 10:30 a.m. Services will conclude with Military Honors.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Nichols Funeral Home, Wilmington, MA. To leave a message of condolence for the family please visit our website at www.nicholsfuneralhome.com