Bruce Harlan '81
April 5, 2021 12:43 PM
updated: April 5, 2021 1:47 PM
Bruce Harlan
May 16, 1959 - November 11, 2020
Bruce Lovell Harlan was born in Kermit, Texas on May 16th, 1958, to Dr. Ronald and Elsie Harlan. He departed here to join our Lord Jesus Christ and Father in Heaven, on Wednesday, November 11, 2020.
Bruce was the oldest of three children and was a best friend, confidant and mentor to his two sisters. Bruce graduated from Littlefield High School in 1976, where he discovered his love of music and excelled in playing many instruments, including becoming a
self-taught bass guitarist. His love of music remained throughout his life, culminating in countless “jam sessions” with his friends and family.
Bruce was a proud alumni of Texas A&M University, graduating summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts in political science. He continued his education at Syracuse University, The Maxwell School of Public Administration obtaining a Master’s in public administration.
His academic career continued at the University Of Texas School Of Law where he graduated with honors and received a juris doctor in 1985 and was admitted to the Texas State Bar the same year. Bruce spent more than 30 years in the practice of law. Although
he spent the first several years of his career in the corporate sector, the last several years of his career were spent in solo practice in Littlefield, TX. He transitioned his career back “home” to help care for his aging parents, who were so proud of him
and adored him with all of their hearts. Dr. Ronald Harlan passed away in 2006, followed by his beloved wife, Elsie Harlan in 2017.
Bruce was blessed with three wonderful sons, which were his pride and joy. He shared his love of music, sports, history and so much more with each of them. He cherished every moment with them and he loved nothing more than sharing their successes and victories
with his family and friends.
Above all, Bruce was a friend to all that passed through his life. He maintained deep friendships with countless people all the way from high school, through college, law school and throughout his career. His sense of humor was contagious and his intellect
was often unmatched. He never hesitated to share his talent and skill to help friends, family and at times, perfect strangers. His love for family and friends and the sheer joy, fun and kindness that he embodied is a most worthy legacy.
Bruce is survived by his three sons, Mason Harlan (Amarillo, TX), Hudson Harlan (Plano, TX) and Keaton Harlan (Plano, TX), sisters Lanelta Harlan (Littlefield, TX) and Hillary Harlan (Pittsburgh, PA).
A Celebration of Life for family and close friends will be scheduled at a later date. All memorial gifts should be directed to 29 Acres Housing Development for Adults with Autism, by contacting anna@29acres.org (214-550-8831) or address to: 29 Acres, 3000 Moseley
Rd, Cross Roads, TX 76227 or to the charity of your choice.
“Glory to God in the Highest, peace on earth, and good will to man.”