Bruce Regan

David Bruce Regan was born on April 18,1923 in the Holly Grove community of Davidson County to Remer and Arnie (Sechriest) Regan. After graduating from Davis-Townsend High School, he spent one year at NC State before entering the army in the early days of World War II. Bruce was a radar operator with the 357th AAA Searchlight Battalion. He was at the Battle of the Bulge and witnessed the Nazi surrender. His vivid descriptions of 1944-45 era England, France, Belgium, and Germany reflected the optimistic outlook that dominated his 98 year lifetime.

After the war, he returned to Holly Grove where he pursued his passion - farming - while working for the US Post Office in Lexington. He retired from the post office in 1988 but never retired from farming. His garden in Welcome is probably the most fertile land in Davidson County. He was active until the end, taking care of his garden, riding his exercise bike, and going out to eat every day. He had a surprisingly sharp wit and could quote lines from any episode of The Andy Griffith Show. Even though his health declined rapidly after an injury in May, he showed remarkable determination and toughness.

Bruce is survived by his wife of 68-years (Betty) and his sons, John (Karen) of Winston-Salem and Philip (Dawn) of Charlotte. He has three grandchildren and a one great-grandson. Bruce was predeceased by his parents (Remer and Arnie) as well as 8 brothers and two sisters. As long as cantaloupes grow and hams cure, Bruce’s spirit will be present.

A private celebration of life will be held at Davidson Funeral Home Chapel officiated by Rev. Mitch Wilson. Burial will follow at Center United Methodist Church Cemetery. Please direct donations to the Center United Methodist Church cemetery fund at: PO Box 179 Welcome, NC 27374

Online condolences may be made at www.davidsonfuneralhome.net