She passed from this world in the early afternoon of Saturday March 7th, 2026 in Apopka, Florida after battling declining health for a long period. She was 82 years old.
Born on September 9, 1943 Mary was the third child of six children born to parents Mervin and Dorothy Bays, in Terre Haute Indiana.
Mary attended Greenwood Elementary, and Sarah Scott Junior High School. She was a graduate of Gerstmeyer High School in Terre Haute, and she was a long time member of Greenwood Baptist Church, where she received Christ into her heart and was baptized as a young girl. Being a Christian would shape who she was and be her strength and constant cause for her entire life. She would often witness the word of God to people she'd just met, and at the drop of a hat and could quote a relevant verse from the bible.
She moved to Orlando FL in the 1970's and remained active in her religion, attending different churches in that community. She met and married Mr. Brian Bruce, and they would share their strength in the Lord which guided them through challenges they would face together, throughout their lives.
In addition to Brian's passing she was preceded in death by Father Mervin, Mother Dorothy, and Sisters Barbara and Sharon. She is survived by her brothers Gary, Randal, and Paul, as well as many nephews and nieces.
Through all of her life she never let go of her faith, never wavered. Now in her eternal happiness, she will be loved and missed, and not forgotten.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
420 West Main Street, Apopka, FL 32712-3452

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