Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
FUNERAL HOME
Bruce Phillips Obituary
Born on November 17, 1960, in Manchester, NH, to Dale and Russell Phillips, Bruce was a proud Auburn native whose passion for the fire service began in childhood, often seen chasing fire trucks around town long before donning the uniform himself.
After graduating from Central High School, Bruce began his firefighting career with the Derry Fire Department in 1980 before joining the Manchester Fire Department in 1986. He rose through the ranks to become a respected lieutenant, serving with pride until his retirement in 2011. Simultaneously, Bruce dedicated 38 years to the Auburn Fire Department, where he held the position of fire chief for an extraordinary 24 years, the longest tenure in the department's history. Even in retirement, Bruce's commitment to public service never wavered. He continued supporting fire departments through FEMA grant writing and remained deeply connected to the firefighting community.
After retirement, he enjoyed traveling between New Hampshire and St. Petersburg, Florida, spreading his love and humor down the Gulf Coast, making friends wherever he went. Known for his larger-than-life personality, unwavering work ethic, and genuine love for those around him, Bruce was the kind of man who lit up every room, and firehouse, he walked into.
He is survived by his mother, Dale Phillips; his children, Shawna and Alex; his cherished grandchildren who brought him endless joy; and his sisters, Shelby and Jennifer.
Calling hours are Tuesday, July 15, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Connor-Healy Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 537 Union Street, Manchester, NH, 03104.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Manchester Firemen's Relief Association, 100 Merrimack Street, Manchester, NH 03101.
For more information visit: www.connorhealy.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Bruce Phillips
David Dupont
August 16, 2025
Earlier this morning, I was with my Saturday golf group when I happened to speak with a resident who originated from New Hampshire. Reminiscing about NH, I informed him that I was retired from Manchester PD and he said he retired from Portsmouth FD. During our conversation, I learned of Bruce’s passing all the way down here in FL. Further proof that Bruce’s legacy extends well beyond the borders of NH. A man of great character and wisdom. To the entire Phillips family, I am deeply saddened to hear of your loss. I will keep Bruce and your family in my prayers.
Valerie Hershfield
July 19, 2025
My heartfelt sympathy to Bruce's family, his firefighter colleagues and other friends. I encountered Bruce many times while he was the Auburn fire chief, and I was a journalist for the Manchester Union Leader. Whether it was a serious story or a fun event the department was putting on, Bruce was always available, forthright and kind. He wasn't afraid to talk to "the press;" I knew he'd always be straight and honest. I also appreciated his wonderful sense of humor. It was a pleasure to work with him, and he will be greatly missed by so many who were lucky enough to know him. Valerie Hershfield, Decorah, Iowa
Réal & Eve Mongeau
July 16, 2025
Dale and family, a lot of people will miss Bruce but you will miss him most of all. Remember his smile and his laughter. Best wishes, Réal & Eve Mongeau.
Stephanie Corbeil
July 15, 2025
Bruce was a remarkable individual who touched the lives of many. He seemed to know everyone, and to me, he was a “brother” to my father. Growing up as a child of a firefighter, I had countless "uncles" looking out for me, and Bruce was one of the most memorable. He had a playful spirit, often teasing my sister and me during our visits to the firehouse. I suspect it was Bruce who jokingly "ratted" me out for skipping school as a preteen, even though I wasn't!
As I transitioned into adulthood, Bruce welcomed me into the fire department with open arms, mentoring me to reach my full potential. During my time there, I formed lifelong friendships and met incredible people, all thanks to his guidance. When I decided to pursue nursing, Bruce supported me wholeheartedly, writing a glowing letter of recommendation and always speaking highly of me to potential employers.
Despite the time I accidentally locked his daughter in her room during a "Burning of the Greens" event—an incident for which I am still apologizing, Shawna!—Bruce continued to be a steadfast supporter. He never asked me to babysit Alex, though, and I can't imagine why!
Bruce, you will be deeply missed by so many. To Shawna, Alex, and Helen, please know that you have a community of firefighters, both past and present, ready to support you in any way you need. I am truly sorry for your loss.
Nizza W
July 15, 2025
Bruce.. I will make sure I clock in and get my money bag..Will miss your morning music rest in peace my friend The reef..mad beach
James Richardson
July 15, 2025
Bruce and I had so many great times growing up together with the Derry Fire Department. He was a true friend and joy to be around. I will always remember a time when I responded mutual aid to a fire in Auburn and upon arrival asked Bruce what he needed. His deadpan reply " I need someone to put the darn fire out".
Mission accomplished!!
He will be truly missed by all who knew him.
Rest in peace my friend.
Jim Richardson, Battalion Chief (Retired)
Derry, NH Fire Department
One of the many gatherings we had with Bruce. <br />AVS classmates.
Jo-Ann Kingsbury DelMastro
July 14, 2025
I remember in second grade Bruce running around the playground with a fireman’s hat on and making siren sounds. He knew early on what he was meant to do.
He was always so kind to my mother, she adored him. She worked at PMC & when he would bring someone in, he always stopped by to see her.
Rest easy friend. Sincere condolences to the entire Phillips family, may his angels greet him & guide him in
Brian&Cindy Barton
July 13, 2025
We met Bruce over 35 years ago and had some fun times with mutual friends in our younger days. Later, he became the lieutenant and mentor to my son at MFD. He took our son under his wing, and our son looked up to him. They always remained close, right to the end. We will all miss you Bruce, especially Steven. Thank you for all you did for him and so many others.
Rebecca Jernigan
July 13, 2025
Will miss him he was always so great to me rest in peace my friend kiss kiss Rebecca
Terri Mitchell Chase
July 12, 2025
Extending my sincerest condolences to the Philips Family,
I attended Central High with Bruce. I was in for one heck of a challenge with his jokes and pranks when our biology teacher, Mr. Vielleux teamed us up to be biology partners. Bruce also sat behind me. One time he dropped a worm down the back of my shirt, another time as he was taking his seat he put a frog on my head. As many years went by, I ran into Bruce with one of his FF buddies. His buddy said, oh you know this prankster? I mentioned the worm down my shirt and frog on my head in biology class, and much to my delight Bruce said, you were the only girl in the class who wasn´t afraid of anything.
Bruce knew back in high school he wanted to be a fire fighter. He served Manchester and Auburn doing exactly what he envisioned as a teenager. He did good for both communities and most definitely loved his career as a fire fighter and Fire Chief.
Rest easy Bruce-
K.R. Sullivan
July 12, 2025
Auburn's native son has made a whole village beyond proud, and made the world a better place. May his legacy continue through all those he has mentored and guided through the years. My heartfelt condolences go out to the entire of the family and all those closest to him.
Anne Sowa
July 11, 2025
Such sad news. Bruce was a good friend and his larger then life personality lit up the room. So many fun times and memories. R.I.P Bruce. You will be missed.
George Calligandes
July 11, 2025
Going to miss that larger than life personality. Always the life of the party. One of the best and most respected Firefighters that I ever had the privilege of working with.
patrick Wright
July 11, 2025
He was a great neighbor and guy. He bought my mother's condo. RiP and say hi to my mom for me Bruce
Susan Watts
July 11, 2025
Shelby, my heart goes out to you and your family. I’m so sorry you lost Bruce. It was along time ago, but we had a lot of fun time by the Phillips pool and the shenanigans to boot. God bless you all.
Paul Nichols
July 11, 2025
A brave and fearless firefighter, and a good friend. RIP BROTHER
Ted Bantis
July 11, 2025
Bruce so many good times at the shop and boat races in Key west. RIP my friend
Paul Dabrowski
July 11, 2025
Thank you Bruce for your words and knowledge at making me a firefighter and EMT.
Joan Hamilton
July 11, 2025
So sad and sorry to hear about the passing of Bruce. My heart and prayers go out to the entire family. Though I did not know Bruce that well I know his family and very widespread friends that he has touched. He was a great man. He will be missed. My condolences
Kevin Burns
July 10, 2025
Without a doubt a great friend that will never be forgotten. Bruce has helped me more than he will ever know. God Bless and may your soul rest in peace. Say hi to BB for me.
Audrey Renaud
July 10, 2025
Bruce, I prayed for you every day ... now I'm including your family in those prayers. It was a pleasure to work directly or indirectly with you at DFD, and AFD, and later to read your travel posts. You SHALL be missed. Rock on, brother, and may you have angels at your side. I care.
Jack Murphy
July 10, 2025
My heartfelt condolences to all of Bruce's family and closest friends. I met him years ago, not too long after he joined the MFD. He was one always of the best; and will be missed by all who knew him. God Bless†
Ron Stowers
July 9, 2025
RIP Bruce.
You were the best, I will always remember the time and fun we had. You were unique and very special.
You made every place you went or worked a great place to be. We will all miss you and we know there won't be another one like you. Bless you, I'll see you on the other side. My friend.
Ron Stowers
July 9, 2025
RIP my friend
Ken Pelletier
July 9, 2025
So very sorry to hear of Bruce´s passing, gone way too early. I had a good time working on the Derry Fire Department with him.
Ken Pelletier
Marion Miller
July 9, 2025
I was so sorry to hear of Bruce's passing. My condolences go out to his family. When Bruce was Chief in Auburn he came several times to our house in the middle of the night to assist my husband who was having a health issue. He was very professional and compassionate.
Stephen LaFay
July 9, 2025
I don’t know if the Phillips family is aware of how Bruce saved my life 33 years ago. I was on the floor of my home, unable to get up. My three year old daughter was able to bring me the phone to call 911. Bruce must have been at the old fire/police station at the time the call came in. He was at my home in minutes. He immediately realized that I had had a stroke, arranged for an ambulance, and care for my 3 year old daughter and infant son. Many were later involved in my care and recovery, but the quick initial actions of Bruce were the ones that mattered most in allowing me to survive. This is the kind of man that Bruce Phillips was. His loss will be felt by family, friends and the town of Auburn.
Dean Jore
July 9, 2025
My condolences to Bruce's family. Bruce was always a go-to guy. He was a great source of information and could be counted on for entertainment value in almost any situation or gathering. Fire service alumni lost a wonderful representative. RIP brother!
Tim McGuire
July 9, 2025
Bruce and I were great friends in elementary and high school. We still hung out after high school but once I left for the Army we didn’t see much of one another. The last time we met was in 2001 at his house in Auburn. We hadn’t seen each other in so long it was a great reunion. We both had careers and families to talk about in addition to reminiscing. I moved away from NH shortly afterward but he and I occasionally shared FB messages and I followed his retirement exploits in FL online. A couple of years ago he sent me this photo. It was around 1981 and I had served on the Auburn F.D. committee that designed the new engine (then E1); the photo was taken on the day it was delivered. He sent it to me out of the blue and we had a nice catch up chat. My most heartfelt condolences to Dale, Shelby, Jennifer, Shawna, Alex and the rest his family.
So long old friend. I’ll remember the good times. ❤
Tim McGuire
July 9, 2025
Bruce and I were great friends in elementary and high school. We still hung out after high school but once I left for the Army we didn’t see much of one another. The last time we met was in 2001 at his house in Auburn. We hadn’t seen each other in so long it was a great reunion. We both had careers and families to talk about in addition to reminiscing. I moved away from NH shortly afterward but he and I occasionally shared FB messages and I followed his retirement exploits in FL online. A couple of years ago he sent me this photo. It was around 1981 and I had served on the Auburn F.D. committee that designed the new engine (then E1); the photo was taken on the day it was delivered. He sent it to me out of the blue and we had a nice catch up chat. My most heartfelt condolences to Dale, Shelby, Jennifer, Shawna, Alex and the rest his family.
So long old friend. I’ll remember the good times. ❤
Ron and Kellie Vachon
July 9, 2025
How blessed we are. Our little girl married your little boy, and we become family. In getting to know Alex, it was very clear that his dad was his best friend, his mentor, and HIS hero. When Alex became a Firefighter and recently promoted to Lieutenant, your tears of pride was clear that he was YOUR hero. We are grateful to have had the time to share in our children's lives and watch them build their family. We will be by Alex's side as he travels through life, his children's milestones and all of life's blessings. We will always save a place for you as you watch, guide and protect from above. You will be sorely missed, rest easy Bruce.
Maureen Burns
July 9, 2025
My heartfelt condolences to Bruce's family & his million friends. He was larger than life, personally & professionally. His loss will be felt along the entire East Coast. He was the friend each of us would want, and each of us should hope to be.
Frank O´Donnell
July 9, 2025
Remembering Bruce for his humor, his dedication to his job both in Auburn and Manchester, and the laughs he brought into the lives of many of us. I had the privilege of working with him for many years. May he rest in peace.
Richard Gilman
July 9, 2025
Rest in HONOR my great friend. A true gentleman, a true servant of the public and a true friend. Rest now your shift has ended. Amazing Grace to you my friend.
Kim Kuehl
July 9, 2025
What a wonderful tribute, RIP Bruce
Robin Hartford
July 9, 2025
You were the kind of man who never had to say you´d be there - you just showed up. Quietly. Fully. When things were at their worst. That´s what I´ll remember. Not the title, not the years served - but the impact. The kindness. The way you checked in when no one else remembered. Thank you, Bruce. You mattered.
To his family: I want you to know I´m here. Day or night. If you need anything.
Alex Chapdelaine
July 8, 2025
I will miss You Bruce, You gave me my dream come true putting me on the auburn fire department back in 2013. i learned a lot from your leader ship and became more confident in my self and my abilities as an EMT. I also earned your trust made a friend in the process. It was an honor to drive you to the airport the morning you signed off the air as fire chief in auburn. I will remember that for ever. You told me to ":be safe train hard be professional on all your calls leave your ego at the door when on calls and of all enjoy the best job in the world be safe kid" . Those words i have ingrained in my brain still to this day and will always. My deepest condolence to Alex, Dail, Shawna as well as fire fighting community brother hood we lost a great leader, a father friend rest in peace brother we have it from here. I pray May God great you into the gates of heaven my you rest in peace lord and know that Bruce made a difference in peoples lives serving the city of Manchester Fire Department as Aand The Fire Chief of The Auburn NH Fire Department. May god watch over all of bruce's children, family, fire fighting community and keep everyone safe be by there side during this time of sadness and emptiness and let them know that bruce will always be with them in spirit Amen.
Donna McKay
July 8, 2025
RIP Bruce.
Dan Donovan
July 8, 2025
The Man, The Myth, The Legend..lots of laughs (and a few tears), lots of beers and shots, and lots of Brotherhood over the last 30+ years.I will raise a glass to you ..I’ll miss you my friend and brother..say hi to Ando for us ❤
Donna Hebert
July 8, 2025
Great guy and lots of memories and laughs . you surely Will be missed. RIP Bruce
Mike Brien
July 8, 2025
We met some 47 years ago when you were just a kid. We were all Brothers on the AVFD but so much more. So many good times over the years! You will be missed.
Mike and Lisa
Lenny Laliberte
July 8, 2025
So sad to hear of Bruce’s passing. Deepest condolences to his family. Bruce was one of the best. He will be greatly missed.
Dewey Seidel
July 8, 2025
Bruce you will be missed sorely. You were a great friend and working partner. The great times in St Pete Fla I will remember. I'm sure God has a special place for you. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family during this Sad time. Watch over our Brothers and Sisters in the Red trucks and keep them safe as I know you will. Love you my friend and see you in Heaven some day.
Richard
July 8, 2025
One of the best men I knew, always had time to help you and your family , picking you up at airport port, hauling to a new location. Not many left like you Friend
See you down the road, we will meet again
Love you Buddy
Therese Vachon
July 8, 2025
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
VINCENT TOLAND
July 8, 2025
Worked with Bruce on the MFD. As "gung-ho" as firefighters come. He was loyal to the profession and loved the brotherhood and camaraderie. He had uncanny instincts amid the most hazardous encounters of the job. If you were beside Bruce Phillips in the blinding smoke of interior firefighting operations, you were in the right place and with the right fireman. He was fearless. The fires were scared of him! Best way to extinguish a fire? Give Bruce Phillips the nozzle. His firefighting philosophy was one of controlled aggression and the best part.... a number of lives were saved because of Bruce Phillips. His actions probably saved mine in a dwelling fire on Chad Road. Yes, I saw his firefighting life-saving skills and work up close and personal. His loss is very sad, but into eternity he now rests in the comfort of Angels!
Rejean John Drouin
July 8, 2025
My deepest sympathy to the Phillips family, my thoughts and prayers are with the entire family during these difficult time, Bruce will be greatly missed by everyone to got to know him, R.I.P. my Friend
Michael Vaillancourt
July 8, 2025
I will miss you my childhood friend, I look forward to seeing your weekly fishing jokes on Facebook! RIP my friend
Patti Paulsen
July 8, 2025
Bruce will be missed greatly at West Shore Village.Liz Sollas also gives her deepest sympathies! She always loved Bruce..he dropped off many a meal at her doorstep over the years as early as 6 am.he was a very kind soul..RIP
Patti and Bill
Cheryl Parraway
July 8, 2025
Absent from the body....present with the Lord.
Missed already.
God bless the family continually I pray.
Barbara MARRIOTT
July 8, 2025
I miss you my friend. I enjoyed your sarcasm, your kindness, and your willingness to always be helpful whether it be getting ice or bringing food. I miss our every day text messages. Rest in peace.
Richard McGahey
July 8, 2025
I was so sorry to hear the news of Bruce’s passing. Bruce and I were work partners on Rescue 1, as they say “Back in the Day”. Although he had his “Flavors of the Month” and liked to “stir the pot” Bruce was a FANTASTIC FireFighter, I learned a lot just listening to him and being taught by him. We had loads of laughs and memories together. I would on occasions run into him and we would pick up right where we left off, like no time had passed.
To Shawna, Alex, Shelby, Jennifer and Mrs. Phillips my deepest and most sincere condolences.
Rest in Peace Bruce, Love ya man
Richard McGahey, Davenport FL
Richard Doherty
July 8, 2025
A friend, brother, and co-worker.Bruce you will be missed. Thoughts and prayers for you and family.RIP
Norm Chaput
July 8, 2025
Bruce was a great guy, I worked with him for many years in Manchester, I am so sorry for his passing, may he rest in peace. Norm Chaput Lakewood Ranch, Florida
Valerie Hayes
July 8, 2025
In loving memory of Bruce. We loved spending time with you when we visited Florida and we appreciated everything you did to help us.
Russell Sullivan
July 8, 2025
Very sorry for your loss......
Yves and Nancy Pariseau
July 8, 2025
Such a wonderful person. Always remember his laugh, smile, and most of all the love he had for all of you. Cherish every moment.
He will always be watching over you.
Bruce, Rest in peace our friend. You will be missed by so many.
Krista Scarlett
July 8, 2025
We are so very sorry for your loss. Sending you all love and prayers. Greg & Krista Scarlett
Terry M.
July 8, 2025
You will be missed my friend. RIP until we meet again
Elaine Angwin
July 8, 2025
Rest in peace Bruce. You will always have a spot in my heart. Love
Joe Johnson
July 8, 2025
He was a great guy and a true friend to me and others he knew here in St. Petersburg, Florida. He'll be sorely missed here.
Brenda Hathaway
July 8, 2025
You will be remembered Bruce, may you RIP my cousin.
Robin Parkhurst
July 8, 2025
Rest in Peace my dear friend. 46 years of knowing you is a long time. Gone far too soon. Heaven got another angel. Love you always.
Robin Laliberte
July 8, 2025
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Gary Tresedder
July 8, 2025
Such a great guy! A true gem!!
Butlers
July 8, 2025
My heartfelt condolences on the loss of Bruce. He was a truly wonderful person who looked after everyone around him. I’ll always be grateful for the care he gave my dad after his major stroke. He will be deeply missed
Kenny Kappotis
July 8, 2025
RIP my freind
Brett Scholbe
July 8, 2025
Bruce was my first partner on the Ambulance when I started with the Derry Fire Dept in '81. He was both a friend and a mentor, helping me along as I entered my career in the Fire Service. He then encouraged me to join the Auburn Fire Dept., and later became a mentor and instructor to my Son as he too joined the Fire Service ranks. We have all lost more than just a great "Jake", we have lost a dear friend to the many he has touched through his many years of Public Service. See you on the other side Brother.
Wendy Cooney
July 8, 2025
Rest In Peace brother. Your dedication to the fire service will live on in the lives that you have touched. Till we meet again know we have the watch from here.
Judy Kurisko Leclerc
July 8, 2025
I am so very, very sorry to hear this . I have known Bruce for over 30 years and just loved his boyish charm and whit. He will be missed and I know he is in heaven . He was a true professional while in the service of both fire departments. May he rest in peace.
Rachel, Carol, Dave Goldstein
July 8, 2025
We are so very sorry for the loss of Bruce. We will always remember the endless laughs throughout the years we've shared and cherished by us all. You are so deeply missed friend. Rest Easy.
Anna-Marie Hunter
July 8, 2025
So sad to hear of Bruce's passing. He was a great friend to me during my life in Auburn and stayed connected through Facebook all the years since my return to Canada. My sincere condolences to his Dear family.
Sue O’Hora
July 8, 2025
Many memories with your Dad and Mom. Thinking of all of you .
Mae Marine
July 8, 2025
I’m so sorry for the loss of Bruce.He will be missed ❤
Showing 1 - 75 of 75 results
Make a Donation
in Bruce Phillips's name
Memorial Events
for Bruce Phillips
Funeral services provided by:
Connor-Healy Funeral Home - Manchester537 Union Street, Manchester, NH 03104
How to support Bruce's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Bruce Phillips's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
