BEVERLY GOURDON BRUCE

5/16/35 – 3/16/23 Beverly Gourdon Bruce, 87, passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 16, 2023. She had a servant’s heart and lived her life meeting the needs of others.

Beverly was born on May 16, 1935, in Coushatta, Louisiana, to Lucile Guier Gourdon and Frank Dorval Gourdon. Beverly attended Northwestern State University in Natchitoches, Louisiana, where she was a member of Alpha Sigma Alpha sorority. In 1956, she graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Home Economics Education.

After graduation, Beverly married the love of her life, Andrew Morris Bruce, Sr. Beverly taught for nine years, teaching home economics in Natchitoches and Caddo Parishes. During her teaching career, she earned a master’s degree in Child Development and Family Relations from NSU, was a member of Kappa Kappa Iota teacher’s sorority, and was nominated as teacher of the year.

In 1972, Beverly began working for the Louisiana Cooperative Extension Service. She served as an extension associate in CaddoBossier Parishes, then in 1977 moved to Mansfield, Louisiana, to serve as the home economist for DeSoto Parish until her retirement in 1996. She was a member of Epsilon Sigma Phi, a National Honorary Extension Fraternity, was honored in Who’s Who of American Women (1981-1982), and served as President of the Louisiana Association of Extension Home Economists (1991-1993).

Beverly was elected to serve south Caddo and DeSoto Parishes in the Louisiana House of Representatives (19962008). Education and safety for children, economic development, and improvement of roads were top priorities during her three terms.

Beverly is preceded in death by her parents, sister Charlotte Mergenschroer, and husband of 64 years, Morris Bruce. She is survived by her son Andy (Lynn) Bruce, and her beloved granddaughters Caitlin (Michael) Miller and Hannah Bruce.

The family would like to give special thanks to the nursing staff at The Glen Retirement System Memory Care Unit for their exceptional care: Natasha Sudartho, Whitney Radcliff, Brittany Evans, Stephanie Allen, Shirley Hust, Debbie Rooker, Denitha Ruffin, and Connie White.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Bridge Alzheimer’s and Dementia Resource Center, 851 Olive Street, Shreveport, Louisiana 71104.

“If anyone serves Me, he must follow Me; and where I am, there My servant will be also; if anyone serves Me, the Father will honor him.” John 12:26