Bruce Allen Burton

Bruce Allen Burton, was born to Ada Mae Freeman Brown and Elijah Burton in Indianapolis, Indiana on May 1, 1958. He spent some of his early years in Chicago before the family returned to Indy, where he attended IPS and later studied at Ivy Tech Community College. Brucie gave his life to Christ in 1978 at a Christian retreat and served faithfully on the Men’s Usher Board at Zion Hope Church. He was undoubtedly one of the cleanest and smoothest ushers to ever glide down the church aisles.

Bruce spent decades working as an automobile salesman, where his charm, wit, and genuine connection with people made him a natural. He didn’t just sell cars, he sold trust, dependability, and a great deal. He even passed along his knowledge to his niece, Crystal, who is still thriving in the business today. Over the years, he also worked as a cab driver and a licensed forklift operator. Even in retirement, Bruce kept moving, delivering joy (and food!) through DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Instacart. He especially enjoyed grocery shopping, even when it was for other people.

Bruce B had an easy going and laid back spirit. With his smooth stride, that he jokingly called his “pimp walk” and cool confidence, he never met a stranger. He could talk to anyone about anything. Known for his sharp wardrobe, he loved collecting hats and caps and always showed up looking dapper. Brucie lived life with ease and grace, always finding joy in the moment and spreading that joy to others.

Bruce B was a man of many passions. He loved reading, cooking, and listening to music of all kinds, jazz, R&B, gospel, reggae, country, and even elevator music. He enjoyed quiet moments on the balcony with his dog Milo, sipping coffee, wine, or a well-made cocktail. Bruce was a lifelong sports fan, cheering on teams in football, basketball, NASCAR, boxing, the Indy 500, and more recently, soccer. He especially enjoyed supporting his bonus son and grandsons in their boxing matches.

Bruce moved to the beat of his own drum, he loved to dance, especially when it was with his little lady, Audra. He also enjoyed long drives with no particular destination. He loved cruising the city, windows down, music up, soaking in the peace of the open road.

Family was everything to Bruce. Whether he was cheering from the sidelines at his grandchildren’s football or basketball games, and track meets or sitting around the table during family gatherings sharing food and conversations, his presence was always felt: cool, calm, yet full of spirit.

Bruce B was a master in the kitchen. His fried fish, chicken, and pork chops were legendary, golden, crispy, and seasoned to perfection. His ribs, slathered in homemade BBQ sauce, were a crowd favorite. His hot wings? Addictive. His signature blend of great northern and pinto beans with melt-in-your-mouth cornbread could quiet the loudest room. Dirty rice and that famous cabbage-and-greens mix, no one ever left his presence hungry. His homemade lemonade was always perfectly prepared, and everyone wanted more. He didn’t bake often, he left that to his little lady, whose lemon cake and peach cobbler were the perfect sweet finish to his soulful meals. Cooking was an act of love for Bruce, and every dish told a story.

Bruce leaves behind a legacy of no nonsense, laughter, and love. He will be deeply missed by his devoted sisters Patricia Freeman, Sharonta Porter (James), and Nicole Blakley (William); his loyal brothers Frederick Freeman (Sherron) and Duane Burton; his loving lifelong companion and “little lady,” Audra Brown; his extended children Louis (Jatoun), Christopher, and Tina Brown; his adoring granddaughters Kaylan & Kyla Mahomes, Janiah Brown & Alecea “Joey” Peel; his athletic grandsons Louis “Tre” & Lynnis Brown and Elijah Miller; three great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.