Obituary published on Legacy.com by Saul Colonial Home on Feb. 5, 2026.
Bruce Winton Perkins, 81, of
Hamilton, New Jersey, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, January 24, 2026. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and a man deeply committed to service and community.
Bruce was married for 45 years to his wife, Joyce Marion Perkins, with whom he built a life rooted in family, purpose, and giving back. Joyce preceded him in death in 2011. Together, they raised three children, Michelle, Michael, and Lisa, who were the pride and joy of their lives.
Born in Norfolk County, Virginia, Bruce was a graduate of Booker T. Washington High School and Hampton University (formerly Hampton Institute). A proud member of the Hampton University Class of 1966, he earned a bachelor's degree in chemistry with a minor in mathematics and distinguished himself as a collegiate swimmer. His education, discipline, and drive shaped the course of both his personal and professional life.
Bruce's career took him across the East Coast. He lived in Connecticut and upstate New York before settling in Mercer County, New Jersey, where he made his home for more than 40 years and became deeply connected to the community. He held executive leadership roles at organizations including Merrill Lynch, AlliedSignal, and Siemens, before eventually founding his own consulting firm. He was widely respected for his insight, integrity, and steady guidance through complex challenges.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Bruce was deeply committed to serving others. In retirement, he devoted himself wholeheartedly to giving back-mentoring and coaching children, assuming leadership roles within his church communities, and helping to finance and distribute meals to those in need throughout the greater Trenton area. His service was quiet and consistent, and its impact was far-reaching.
Bruce was preceded in death by his parents, Sanford Maurice and Margaret Parham Perkins; his wife, Joyce; and his sister, Patricia Franklin. He is survived by his children: daughter, Michelle Renee Perkins of Chicago, Illinois; son, Michael Winton (Christine) Perkins of Upper Marlboro, Maryland; and daughter, Lisa Marie (Trevor) Conrad of Norwalk, Connecticut. He is also survived by four grandchildren-Kailey and Kaiden Winton Perkins of Upper Marlboro, Maryland, and Madeline and Charlotte Conrad of Norwalk, Connecticut-who brought him immense pride and joy.
Bruce was also survived by Brother-in-law, Jesse (Judy) Thompkins and sister-in-law, Hellena Thompkins of
Suffolk, VA and a host of cousins, nieces and nephews in the Hampton Roads, VA area.
In the later chapter of his life, Bruce shared a loving partnership with Sharon Young, of Trenton, New Jersey, with whom he spent the past 12 years. Their relationship brought him companionship, laughter, and deep happiness.
Bruce will be remembered for his strength of character, generosity of spirit, devotion to family, and unwavering commitment to serving others. His legacy lives on through the people he loved, the lives he touched, and the example he set.
A memorial service honoring Bruce's life will be held at a later date. Additional information will be provided when available.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Saul Colonial Home, 3795 Nottingham Way,
Hamilton Square, NJ.