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Bruce Jamerson Obituary

Bruce Franklin Jamerson MIDLOTHIAN - Bruce Franklin Jamerson, 54, of Midlothian, died April 24, 2011. Bruce was born March 14, 1957, in Richmond. He graduated from Armstrong High School in 1975. He was a proud Hokie, having graduated with a B.A. degree in political science and history from Virginia Polytechnic and State University in 1979. Bruce was married to Elizabeth Newman Hazelwood on Oct. 4, 1986. They have one daughter, Ainslie Hudson Jamerson. Bruce served as Clerk of the Virginia House of Delegates and Keeper of the Rolls of the Commonwealth, a position to which he was first elected in October of 1991. He began his employment with the General Assembly of Virginia in 1974 while still in high school, working for 38 consecutive legislative sessions. In his capacity as clerk of the House, he served for speakers of both parties, modernized the legislative chamber, and served as a member of the Executive Committee for the Capitol Restoration and Extension project from 2004-07. Bruce was an Eagle Scout. He was a principal member of the American Society of Legislative Clerks and Secretaries, and served as president of the Society in 2004-05. He was secretary-treasurer of the Virginia Capitol Foundation, and served as its first chairman from 2003-05. He was secretary-treasurer of the Board of Directors of the American Legion Boys State of Virginia, and was inducted into the Boys State of Virginia Hall of Fame in 2001. He was a lifelong member of Stockton Memorial Baptist Church in Richmond, having served as a trustee, deacon and treasurer. He was a graduate of the Virginia Executive Institute. He was a dedicated public servant, a devoted husband, and a loving father. His loyalty to friends was unparalleled, and he never failed in placing the needs of others above his own. His was preceded in death by his mother, Barbara Hudson Jamerson. He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth; his daughter, Ainslie; his father, Wilbur Franklin Jamerson; his half brother, Michael Jamerson; his half sister, Linda Peterson; his mother-in-law, Mary Ainslie Latimer, and her husband, Art; many loving cousins and extended family members; his staff in the House Clerk's Office; the current and former members that he served with such excellence and dignity; and friends and colleagues throughout the Commonwealth and across the nation. Family and friends will be received at Bliley's - Central, 3801 Augusta Ave., Richmond, Wednesday, April 27, from 3 to 5 p.m. and from 7 to 9 p.m. A private burial will be held today, April 28, in Suffolk. A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, April 29, at Bon Air United Methodist Church, 1645 Buford Road, Richmond. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that contributions be made to Stockton Memorial Baptist Church, the Boy Scouts of America, the YMCA, or the Virginia Capital Foundation.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Virginian-Pilot on Apr. 28, 2011.

Memories and Condolences
for Bruce Jamerson

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Carolyn Collins

June 10, 2011

While watching the news this week, I learned of Mr. Jamerson's death. I met him only twice.....during the 2nd grade field trip to the Capitol with Miss Bass' class (Amelia Academy) for my son and daughter. He was our personal tour guide! What an impression he made. He was so patient with those kids! He was so cordial and he wanted to be sure the kids left with positive attitudes about our government. Well, it worked for me, it always restored my faith in our government. We need MANY more "Mr. Jamersons" in our government. To his wife and daughter, I am so very sorry. I pray that God will give you peace. These things are unexplainable. This man made quite an impression on people so remember that during the times of sadness. God bless you both.

Cathy A

May 7, 2011

I knew Bruce all the way back in junior high at Falling Creek. He was such a great guy then. I lost contact with him after junior high, but have seen his name in the media over the years, and have been so happy for him, and even proud of him and his accomplishments. All of these Guest Book comments attest to what an awesome, successful, thoughtful, kind, generous man he was as an adult. He touched so many people in a positive way. It seemed that he had a perfect life. I am so very deeply saddened and troubled at his passing. My heart and prayers go out to his wife, daughter and the rest of his family, friends and co-workers. May God bless you all and bring you peace. God knows Bruce's heart. May Bruce be at peace now.

Helen Hess

May 5, 2011

One could not ask for a nicer boss than Bruce Jamerson. I have had the privilege of working with the pages for the past eleven years during General Assembly sessions, and I'm sure all the House pages would agree that he took pride in the Virginia House of Delegates page program. He will be missed. My prayers are with his family.

Nelson Terrell

May 2, 2011

My thoughts and prayers are with your family, it deeply saddens me to hear of Bruce's passing. I met Bruce in Boy Scouts in the 70's, he was a good troop leader.

India Stender

May 2, 2011

I am sorry for your loss and he will be in my family's prayers.
India Stender (2010 HofD Page)

Donna Knicely

May 1, 2011

As others, I have fond memories of Bruce. I was a secretary at the House of Delegates for 10 years and he was my boss. He was always warm and friendly. He was the one who wrote us all a letter each year asking if we wanted to join him again in supporting the delegates. He was also the one who wrote to each secretary every year to thank us for serving. He will be missed there and in everything else he did. I hold his wife and much loved daughter in the "Light".

David Braun

April 30, 2011

Dear Elizabeth & Ainslie:

Bruce was the epitome of a gentleman. I had the privilege of working with him at the American Legion Boys State program for over 20 years and I can say he was one of the kindest, most thoughtful people I have known. Bruce led the legislative program at Boys State and he flawlessly replicated it to the actual Virginia General Assembly, right down to an impressive gubernatorial inauguration. During his time at Boys State he educated over 20,000 young men from all over the Commonwealth about the mechanics and importance of Democracy. Virginia has lost a tremendous official. Boys State has lost a vital leader, and I have lost a dear friend. I am grateful to have known him.

May his memory and God’s grace guide you and your family and all of us in this time of profound grief.

David Braun
Program Director & Chief Instructional Counselor
American Legion Boys State of Virginia

Gretchen

April 29, 2011

To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die.   Thomas Campbell

Peace be upon him. May his memory be for a blessing.

Lesley Hunley

April 29, 2011

I remember Mr. Jamerson fondly from my service as a House page in 1999. My thoughts and prayers are with you during your time of loss.

Cindy Murfee

April 29, 2011

May God be with you during this difficult time.

Linda Ashby

April 29, 2011

My sincere sympathy and love goes out to each of Bruce's loving family and friends. May you all cherish his memories as long as you live.
My mother was always so fond of the Jamerson folks, as her cousin is Wilbur, Bruce's father, We have gotten to know Linda Carol, Bruce's sister well the past two years as she lovingly helped care for my mother during her time living at home. I know how proud Linda and all of the family is for his accomplishments and the love he had for his family. May you rest in peace, Bruce.

Father Steve McNally

April 28, 2011

Through Delegate Putney I was invited in January, 2010 to give the Invocation before the House. It was our Governor's first work day following his inaguration. It was my first and only time meeting Mr. Jamerson, but the impression he made will be with me forever. His kindness, hospitality, his genuine welcome and gratitude to me was most humbling. His love for our Commonwealth, his knowledge of its history and his attention to detail all spoke of his deep respect for The House and it's unique and storied past.

His passing has left a great void in many hearts. May he now receive a most gracious welcome into God's House! May his family, many friends and colleagues know the consolation and peace of God.

April 28, 2011

I was Bruce's yearbook advisor at Falling Creek Jr. High. He will be remembered as one of my favorite students of all my 31 years of teaching. He was a kind and thoughtful young man. I shall miss the birthday and Christmas cards he never failed to send each year, as well as the occasional phone call. My deepest sympathies go out to Elizabeth and Ainslie. I will keep them in my thoughts and prayers. Love to them, Suzanne Briel Farrior

April 28, 2011

John and I got to know Bruce and his family about 10yrs ago at church when we moved from Calif. He was gracious and always sent birthday cards and a beautiful Christmas card with his daughter. I must share that Bruce found out our oldest grandson was going to visit us and wanted to share the capital with him. He loved the capital and all the history that went with it. I told my grandson of his death and all he could say was "he was such a nice guy". Our hearts and prayers go to the family. Christ Love John and Pat Maloon

Maresa Spangler

April 28, 2011

Mr. Jamerson oversaw the legislative Pages when our daughter Madelaine was a House Page in 2004. He was beloved by all of the Pages and I remember fondly when he gave "the speech" as all of us parens were about to leave our 13 year olds in his custody for 2 months. The ending of "the speech" was something like "and you'd better follow my rules...I'm your daddy NOW!". He was humorous and kind and we had no qualms whatsover about our young daughter being on her own in the program knowing they were all under his watchful eye. At the end of Madelaine's 8th grade year, Mr. Jamerson attended the 8th grade awards cerermony at her middle school (at our request) and presented her with an award for having been a Page. He, on his own, presented her with an engraved Jefferson Cup at that time. He then left and drove the 30 minutes back downtown to his job, his life, at the House of Representatives. Just one of the many kind and unselfish acts that have been discussed since his death.

We will always remember Mr. Jamerson fondly and are priviledged to have known him, though briefly. I am so sorry for the grief that his family and friends must be feeling now, and especially for his lovely young daughter. God bless you all.
Maresa , who was a classmate of our sons through 8th grade.
Maresa Spangler (and family)
Midlothian VA

Julie Jeffery

April 28, 2011

Mr Jamerson was such an example of citizenship, loyalty and class. As my husband worked for him and my son is in the Boy Scouts, he will serve as a lifelong inspiration to us all. Julie Spruell Jeffery

Suzanne Rogers

April 28, 2011

Wilbur, Elizabeth & Ainslie...

God Bless you and comfort you as only He can...

Love,
Susan~

David Moshier

April 28, 2011

To the Jamerson Family:

Our deepest sympathies and prayers are extended to you upon this loss. Mr. Jamerson's unselfish service to the Commonwealth is examplary and should be held as the highest example of service to fellow man.

On a personal note, as one who has a fondness for Boys State (I attended in 1971), I can appreciate how valuable his contributions to that institution must have been.

Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord.

+The Rt. Rev. Dr. David I. Moshier
Bishop of Virginia, U.S.A.
Fountain Worldwide Revival Ministries

April 28, 2011

MAY GOD GO WITH YOU ELIZABETH & AINSLIE AND ALSO THE REST OF BRUCE'S FAMILY. AINSLIE; HOLD SPECIAL MEMORIES IN YOUR HEART OF ALL THE GOOD TIMES YOU AND YOUR DAD HAD. I KNOW YOU CAN NEVER FORGET HOW HE DIED, BUT YOU HAVE A WONDERFUL LIFE AHEAD AND A LOVING MOM AND EXTENDED FAMILY TO HELP YOU. OUR PRAYERS ARE THAT ALL OF YOU CAN COUNT ON THE LOVE OF GOD TO GET YOU THROUGH THIS. WE LOVE YOU SO VERY MUCH....BARBARA & BILL HUDSON-WAYNE & TINA HUDSON AND CHRIS AND TAMMY WHITTEMORE

Linda (Jones) Odell

April 28, 2011

My thoughts and prayers go out to Bruce's family. I knew them many years ago when I attended Stockton Church in the 70's.

Tony Jones

April 28, 2011

To the family: I am sorry to hear of your loss. The Bible says that in the near future God will destroy mankind's biggest enemy, that enemy is death. He also said at John 6:40, that he will resurrect all those who are in his memory on the last day.

Owen, Pat, Chris & Greg Ayres

April 27, 2011

Elizabeth, Ainslie, Wilbur, Linda, Michael, Kimberly, Nathalie,Florene and family our hearts, thoughts and prayers are with all of you. We know God will send His Love, Comfort and Strength to each of you and bring you peace.
Cherish each other

Suzanne Schupp

April 27, 2011

I met Bruce and Elizabeth in the 1980 session of the General Assembly. Bruce was a dedicated servant to the state in his youth. My sympathy goes out to the entire family, Bruce was truly a shining example to all. God bless you.
Suzanne Echols Schupp
Greenville, NC

Beverly (Cook) Boylan

April 27, 2011

I attended Stockton Memorial Church in my youth and knew Bruce. His mother, Barbara, was my Sunday School teacher for several years. Although I left Virginia about 29 years ago and moved to Florida, I go back each year to visit family for Easter. During my trip this year, I was shocked to hear the news of Bruce's death. Although it has been many years since I have seen Bruce, I remember him as a child and young adult and as being a kind and gentle person. We put together a carnival for Muscular Dystrophy one year in one of our neighbor's backyards and Bruce was the "ringmaster" and we all had such a good time. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family. God bless you in these difficult times.

Bruce speaking to Denise Weeks Clerk of the North Carolina House of Representatives

William Schaeffer

April 27, 2011

Viesta Washington

April 27, 2011

My deepest sympathy go out to the Jamerson family. I had the lovely chance to meet Bruce. He was a kind, a gentlemen, and very helpful. When I think of Bruce, I also think of Jimmy Walthall, both fixtures at the General Assembly. He will be miss. God bless him.

Ann & Joe Holleman

April 27, 2011

Bruce was like our son and we will miss him deeply. Elizabeth and Ainslie you will always be in our thoughts and prayers. We love you dearly and Ainslie remember your Daddy is with you always in your heart. Elizabeth,Joe is flying back and will see you Friday.My thoughts will be with you. Love Ann & Joe

April 27, 2011

To Elizabeth and Ainslie - we at the Richmond Circuit Court Record Room extend our heartfelt sympathy and pray that the Lord will continue to strengthen you during your time of bereavement.

Randy Glasscock

April 27, 2011

The Commonwealth, his family and many of Bruce's friends over the years are grieving the loss of a great statesman, wonderful example and friend to all. I had the pleasure to know Bruce in several ways; as a co-worker at a part-time job in Kenbridge, as a neighbor in Kenbridge, as a coworker in the General Assembly Building during the Robb Administration and through other associates. This loss is felt by so many that were lucky enough to have him in their lives. We need to continue to live his example of love, professionalism and generousity in our lives. I have shared my grief and tears with you all this week.

Laura Tate

April 27, 2011

Elizabeth and Ainslie,
Bruce was one of my best friends in high school. After he got his car he would come by each morning to give me a ride to school so I could avoid the school bus. I remember our long talks and lots of laughs on those rides. I don't think his mind ever stopped!
We last spoke 6 years ago when I was trying to talk him into coming to the high school reunion. We caught up with each other's lives. Bruce said he was so lucky to have the love of his life and that his most important accomplishment was his daughter.
I am proud that Bruce was in my graduating class. I am honored that he was my friend.
My prayers are with you at this difficult time. May your sweet memories give you comfort.
Laura Bennett Tate
Armstrong Class of '75

Marguerite & Bob Schwab

April 27, 2011

Dear Elizabeth & Ainslie - We are so very sorry. Please know that our prayers are with you. God bless you both. Marguerite & Bob Schwab P.Bishop's parents.

Barbara Wilson Peck

April 27, 2011

May the peace which comes from the memories of love shared, comfort you now and in the days ahead. I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts are with you and your family.
Armstrong High School Class of 1975

Cynthia & Julian Barnett

April 27, 2011

To the Jamerson Family - My husband and I met Bruce many years ago when he lived in Kenbridge, Virginia. We all carpooled together for almost 2 years - making our way to Richmond each day to get to work. He attended my sister's wedding. Though we lost touch with Bruce over the years, we have never forgotten the good times we shared nor what a wonderful person he was. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

April 27, 2011

Elizabeth and Ainslie, just know that your family and friends are here for you. You have great faith, and you know God is with you. May he give you peace and comfort at this tragic time. Remember you have many people upon whom you can call. We will be praying for you now and in the days to come. With love,
Evelyn and Danny

Doris, Woody & Jesse Woods

April 27, 2011

Dear Elizabeth I thank about you and Bruce each time I see him on TV. Bruce was a wonderful person, I know that he will be missed by everyone. My thoughts and prayers and the love of God are with you and your family. Please accept our deepest sympathies.

Bruce during restoration of the House chamber

William Schaeffer

April 27, 2011

Bruce Jamerson, Clerk of the Virginia House of Delegates

William Schaeffer

April 27, 2011

Bill & Joyce Beigle

April 27, 2011

So sorry for your loss...Our prayers are with you all.

June and Greg Hodge

April 27, 2011

Elizabeth and Ainslie - I was fortunate to share my Stockton childhood with Bruce, as well as be co-worker in State service. He never missed sending an anniversary card to Greg and I each year, as well as a picture of you Ainslie each Christmas. We will miss him and you both will always be in our thoughts and prayers. June (Goodman)and Greg Hodge.

William Schaeffer

April 27, 2011

I will never forget the first time I encountered Bruce Jamerson. It was in the early days of my having been elected Clerk of the Ohio House of Representatives. Bruce had called to congratulate me on my election. I recall his genuine concern and friendship to help in any way possible. He remembered I collected state flags and sent me a Virginia flag a week later. As the recent years past Bruce would always send me a birthday greeting. My heart and prayers go out to Elizabeth and Ainslie and all who knew and had the pleasure of working with him.

Lee West

April 27, 2011

Ainslie and Mrs. Jamerson,
So sorry to hear about your dad and husband. My thoughts and prayers are with you both.

Lee West
French Teacher, Manchester Middle

Pat Giesen

April 27, 2011

For the past several days I have been reminded of my early association with Bruce when I was employed with the House of Delegates and Bruce was 15 working in the Mail Room. We made an instant connection and our friendship continued over the years. We worked together on the many Page Reunions and the Spouses Tours. Even in my capacity at my job now he was always willing to help over and beyond what was asked (typicsl Bruce) >He was one of a kind and and noone can fill his shoes. He will be greatly missed. My prayer now for Elizabeth & Ainslee is that thier Faith,Family and Friends will uphold them through these diffcult times. Love, Pat Elliott Giesen.

April 27, 2011

No words can express the pain you and Ainslie must be feeling. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. There is no greater loss than that of a husband and father. May God lighten your load and heal your pain and suffering.

Wayne, Tina & Eric Hudson

Bob and Toney Fitzgerald

April 27, 2011

Elizabeth and Ainslie, Bob and I were so sorry to hear about your loss. Bruce was such a wonderful man. He touched many lives and will be missed by all. We will keep you in our thoughts and prayers.

Gardner Phillips

April 27, 2011

Thoughts and Prayers

Deborah Lewis

April 27, 2011

Bruce will missed. My prayers to your Daughter & Wife and family keep each other lifted up. class of 1975.

Elizabeth Adamson

April 27, 2011

As a page my daughter has fond and warm memories of Mr. Jamerson's kind and caring ways. He was like a father to the young men and ladies who were honored to serve in that capacity. He will be missed by so many. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family today and for many days to come.

Dick & Bobbi Werner

April 27, 2011

Elizabeth & Ainslie,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Bruce was a wonderful person and a great friend.

Betsy Hartz

April 27, 2011

Elizabeth and Ainslie - know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Mary is a dear college friend and I have heard so much about your dear family. Know that you are surrounded by His love and the love of others and that you will have a real sense of God's presence as you trust Him for strength and peace and gentle comfort. With love and blessings

April 27, 2011

To the family of Bruce Jamerson and the Commonwealth of Virginia are sent my heartfelt wishes that you find comfort through your faith as we release Bruce from this earth. It was my distinct pleasure to be called friend through our legislative association. He was such a credit to our profession. Sylvia M. Fink, Principal Clerk of the North Carolina Senate (1976--1997)

Megan Rhyne

April 27, 2011

Our best to Mr. Jamerson's family in this time of sorrow. Mr. Jamerson embodied all the best of Virginia state government. - Megan Rhyne, Virginia Coalition for Open Government

April 27, 2011

We are so very sorry and thinking about all his family and friends.
Barbara Thalhimer and Jim Whiting

Crystal Stephens

April 27, 2011

It was a pleasure working with and getting to know Mr. Jamerson over the past few years. Friends and family, please accept my deepest sympathies.

Crystal Stephens, VA State Capitol Housekeeping Supervisor

Grant Neely

April 26, 2011

Bruce was my first mentor, and he gave me opportunities that sparked a youthful and lifelong interest in government and politics. Like so many others, I quickly came to admire his professionalism, his decorum, his honest love for Virginia, and his decency. I learned a lot just from watching him work. He helped us celebrate life's special moments, both happy and sad. I'll always remember the thoughtfulness he showed in helping me, as a high school student, watch Governor Wilder's inauguration, and the kindness he showed my family when my father died two decades later. While I hadn't seen him regularly in a while, last week was the first time in 20 years that I didn't receive one of those special birthday cards. I think that absence will feel even worse next year. This was a good man, and I shall miss him very much.
Grant Neely

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