Robert "Bruce" Hursey

Robert "Bruce" Hursey, 86, left this world peacefully on May 23, 2025, surrounded by his loving family in Titusville, FL. Bruce was born on December 5, 1938, in Newark NJ, the son of Wade & Helen Hursey. He grew up in Frederick, MD where he developed a love for academics, model trains, carpentry and the drums. Following his graduation from Frederick High School, he enlisted and proudly served his country in the US Navy. The Navy and intensive training with electronics, including time at the University of Oklahoma, prepared Bruce for a highly rewarding career with NASA and the space program. The Navy and NASA allowed Bruce to see the world, but it was his career with NASA that brought him to Santiago, Chile in 1976 where he met his wife, Idilia "Lily" Rosa Hursey. When they met, he didn't speak Spanish, and she didn't speak English, so their unique first date included their mutual friend who served as a translator. After many years in Maryland, Bruce moved the family back to Titusville where he and Lily would raise their two children, R.C. and Joey. Throughout life as dad, Bruce was always present for band concerts, soccer matches, football games, vacations and adventures with the family. Bruce truly loved being a family man and being surrounded by his kid's friends. He had a huge personality and always loved joking around. Later in life, Bruce cherished the role of grandfather, or "Papa" as he came to be known. He is survived by his loving wife of 47 years, Lily, his children Roberto "R.C." and Jose "Joey", their wives Erin and Katie, and their children Olivia, Owen, and Lilyana. He is also survived by his children from a previous marriage, Tony and his children Josh and Alex, and Donna and her husband Bob. Bruce will be laid to rest at the Cape Canaveral National Cemetery in Mims, FL on Monday June 9th at 10:30am, with full military honors. Following, the family will celebrate Bruce's life at North Brevard Funeral Home in Titusville, FL at 11:30am.