Celebrating the Life of Bruce Henley

(September 20, 1953 – May 3, 2025)

Bruce Henley departed this world on May 3, 2025, leaving behind a legacy defined by kindness, generosity, and boundless curiosity.  His dynamic spirit and vivacious personality infused every corner of his life, inspiring all who knew him with his creative vision and unwavering determination.  And just so it’s on record, Bruce was ridiculously good-looking.

Early Years and Calling

Born in 1953, Bruce came of age during the social movements of the 1960s, where his deep concern for justice found expression alongside civil rights and spiritual renewal.  As a high-school youth leader in the Jesus Revolution, he combined compassion with conviction, guiding peers toward faith and service.  After graduating from W.W. Samuell High School in 1972, he earned a bachelor’s degree at Dallas Baptist College and a master’s at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.

From 1973 to 1974, Bruce served as a student missionary in Aberdeen, South Dakota—holding revivals, baptizing new believers, and living out his calling as an unapologetic lover of Christ.  He later helped pastor Maranatha Baptist Church in Moorhead, Minnesota, and founded a worship community in Barnesville, where his passionate teaching was like nothing these northerners had ever seen or heard.

Upon returning to Texas, Bruce spent over two decades as a counselor at the Dallas County Youth Village, guiding troubled young men with empathy and firm resolve.  As life may have changed for him, his mission to help people of all ages did not.  Bruce’s commitment to these vulnerable youths became a true labor of love, reflecting his belief that every person carries untapped potential.

Family and Personal Legacy

He was a devoted father whose steadfast belief in our potential became the bedrock of our confidence.  Whether we liked it or not, he was all-in on us being our best.  When life knocked us off balance, he was always there to steady us and help us rise again.  He poured true confidence into us, assuring us that we could be authentically ourselves and embrace the unique qualities that made us stand out in this world.  As a grandfather, he saw more than just grandkids—he saw promise, and he cherished every chance to guide them with wisdom and love.

Survivors include:

Daughter: Rebecca Henley Luker

Son: Timothy Henley

Brother: Mike Henley and sister-in-law Jan Henley

Aunt: Carolyn Henry

Grandchildren: Katelyn, Jayden, Faith, Haley, Lindsey, Sarah, and Luke

He was preceded in death by his parents, Beatrice and Roy Henley.

A Passion for Music, Art, Fitness and Dancing

Bruce’s larger-than-life persona found its soulmate in creating music and art. Whether composing pointed lyrics, belting out soulful melodies, or mastering piano, guitar, drums, and any instrument in reach, his performances radiated contagious passion. His original songs—like Bruce himself—were unmistakably one of a kind. And boy could he dance! From the ballroom to the honky tonk, he put on an unforgettable show. In his younger years, he painted and sculpted portraits of those around him. In his younger years, he painted and sculpted those around him. Later in life, he was all about sculpting that body of his and regularly took up residence at 24 Hour Fitness for half-day workout sessions. Bruce loved feeling at his best and enjoying the camaraderie of his friends there.

Celebration of Life

A celebration of Bruce’s extraordinary journey will be held on Friday, July 18, 2025, at 4:00 PM at the Ocean Buffet. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Foundation for the Preservation of Honey Bees: https://everloved.com/life-of…

Bruce Henley’s life was a testament to love in action. May his spirit continue to guide and inspire all who were fortunate enough to know him.  

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