Carole Collins Bruce

In Loving Memory of Carole Collins Bruce

Carole Collins Bruce, of Longwood, Florida, passed away peacefully on September 4, 2026, at the age of 82. Born on February 21, 1944, in Cocoa Beach, Florida, Carole lived a life filled with laughter, love, friendship, and devotion to her family.

Carole was a true Southern belle whose vibrant personality could light up any room. She was funny, kind-hearted, outspoken, and endlessly social. She loved people and never met a stranger. Whether sharing a story, offering advice, or making those around her laugh, Carole had a gift for bringing joy to everyday moments.

For more than 25 years, she built a successful career in the mortgage industry, earning the respect of colleagues through her dedication, determination, and strong work ethic. Yet her greatest accomplishments were found not in her career, but in the relationships she nurtured throughout her life.

Carole embraced life with enthusiasm and found happiness in both simple pleasures and meaningful experiences. She loved gardening, cooking for family and friends, losing herself in a good book, dancing, traveling, and taking long walks. She approached each day with curiosity, energy, and appreciation for the people she loved.

One of the greatest blessings of her life was her marriage to her beloved husband, Rob. Together they shared more than 37 years of love, companionship, and cherished memories. Family was the center of Carole's world, and nothing brought her greater joy than being a wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend.

Known affectionately as "Nana," Carole adored her grandchildren. She celebrated their accomplishments, encouraged their dreams, and showered them with unconditional love. The memories they shared together will remain treasured gifts for years to come.

Carole is survived by her loving husband, Robley Bruce; her daughter, Kimberly Burns and son-in-law, Shawn Burns; her son, George Freeman and daughter-in-law, Arlene Freeman; and her step-son, Robley Bruce. She is also survived by her beloved grandchildren, Ethan Burns, Whitney Boulay, Elizabeth Burns, and Madeleine Freeman, who brought endless pride and joy to her life.

She is further survived by her sister, Susan Culbreth, and brother-in-law, David Culbreth; her brother-in-law, Richard D. Bruce, and his wife, Wanda Bruce; along with many nieces, extended family members, and dear friends who were blessed to know and love her.

Carole was preceded in death by her parents, Virgil Thomas Collins and Elizabeth Neal Collins.

A memorial service celebrating Carole's life will be held on Saturday, October 3, 2026, 1pm at Wekiva Presbyterian Church, 211 Wekiva Springs Lane, Longwood, Florida 32779, immediately followed by a reception at Sweetwater Country Club, 2600 Bolzano Drive, Apopka, Florida 32712.

Carole's life was defined by her unwavering love for family, her fierce loyalty to friends, her devotion to her grandchildren, and her unforgettable spirit. She leaves behind a legacy of laughter, strength, kindness, and love that will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

She will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.