Bruce Alan Corrie

Bruce A. Corrie, born the second son of Edith and George Corrie (WW1 Vet) on Long Island, New York, on November 21, 1935, passed away peacefully Friday March 21, 2025, after a remarkable life dedicated to education, sports, and community service. He graduated from Hempstead High School in the late 1940s, where he was actively involved in sports and various clubs. Subsequently, he attended Denison University in the 1950s, majoring in Physical Education with a minor in English, and participated in both sports and theater.

In 1957, Bruce was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in the United States Air Force, marrying Jane Botsford the same year. His service included assignments at various Air Force bases until 1960, when he was discharged and promoted to Captain in the USAF Reserve. Bruce furthered his education, earning a Master’s degree from Indiana University and receiving a Fulbright Teaching Grant to teach in Greece in the 1960s.

In 1965, he joined Duke University as a professor and coach, making significant contributions to the institution's athletic programs. He obtained his Doctor of Physical Education degree in 1970 and continued to advance his career at Duke while taking sabbaticals in Turkey and Greece in the mid-1970s. Bruce authored a book on the Atlantic Coast Conference and became the first Director of Athletics that was for both men and women at Bucknell University in 1978. Throughout the 1980s, he led the US Mission to the International Olympic Academy and held various leadership roles in athletic associations.

In 1987, Bruce became Director of Athletics at Northwestern University, where he organized football games and hired notable coaches, further enhancing the university's athletic reputation. He later served as Director of Athletics at Robert Morris University in the 1990s, where his leadership led to several football championships and notable accolades, including lifetime achievement awards. Bruce retired in 2000 but remained active in sports and community organizations, such as the St. James Tennis Association. His contributions were recognized through his induction into the Hall of Fame at both Denison University and Robert Morris University.

In March 2022, Bruce and Jane moved to the Abernethy Laurels community, where he engaged in physical therapy, attended lectures, dances, and themed parties, and cherished the company of fellow residents. A devoted member of Friendship Methodist Church, Bruce participated in Sunday School and enjoyed connecting with others during the weekly men's breakfast. His warm demeanor and ability to connect with others left a lasting impression on the Abernethy community.

Bruce Corrie is survived by his two daughters: Linda J. Hoke (Alan) and Bonnie J. Estes (Joe). His wife of 64 years, Jane B. Corrie, predeceased him on July 15, 2022, while at Abernathy. He has four grandchildren and two step-grandchildren: Virginia Wooten (Adam); Corrie Howell, Brem Hoke, Rosalie Howell, Kelli Irwin (Chirs), and Jordan Estes. He has three great-grandchildren and one step-great-grandchild: Emma Wooten, Katy Wooten, McKenna Wooten, and Hunter Tomlin Estes. Bruce’s brother, Robert Corrie also predeceased him in 2014. Bruce also leaves behind a sister-in-law and a number of nieces.

A memorial service to honor Bruce’s life will be held on Saturday, March 29, 2025, at 11:00 am at Friendship Methodist Church in Newton, NC, with Dr. Rick Auten officiating. Military rites will be provided by the US Air Force and American Legion Post 544.

His legacy as an educator, leader, and friend will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Alexander Funeral and Cremation Service.

Condolences may be sent to www.alexfuneralservice.com