Bill Bride

March 24, 1943 - December 7, 2020

Billy “Bill” Eugene Bride, 77, of Bloomfield, Iowa, passed away on December 7, 2020, at University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics in Iowa City of the covid-19 virus. He was born March 24, 1943, in Ottumwa, Iowa, to Vernett and Irene Hill Bride. He graduated in 1961 with the first graduating class from Davis County Community High School (formerly Bloomfield High School). Following service with the U.S. Army from 1964-1966, Bill married Mary Joanne Jones of Drakesville, Iowa, at the Bloomfield Methodist Church on January 22, 1967, an unusually balmy winter day with temperatures in the mid-60’s. Bill and Joanne celebrated 53 years of marriage in 2020. Bill was a faithful and dedicated member of the Bloomfield United Methodist Church. He especially treasured his long-term membership and participation in the Monday Night Men’s Bible Study Group. He was also a long-time member and past Worshipful Master of Franklin Masonic Lodge # 14 A.F. and A.M. in Bloomfield. Bill has been a commissioner on the local VA (Veterans Affairs) Board for approximately 20 years and a long-time member and president of the local Community Housing Board. He served on the Citizens Mutual board of directors for several years. He was a member and past president of the Bloomfield Jaycees and a member of the local Optimist Club. He was involved with the area Johnny Poppers Two-Cylinder Club and greatly enjoyed many tractor rides with his “tractor buddies”. He and his brother Ron were proud of their collection of John Deere tractors, which they had restored and frequently drove in local and area parades. Bill also enjoyed many hours with local men’s coffee groups. Bill was employed at Mikels Inc. in Bloomfield for 37 years in auto sales. He had been co-owner of Bill and Roy’s Conoco. He and his brother Ron had always been involved in their family farm operation. Bill and Joanne enjoyed traveling with other Citizens Mutual board members and with Allied Tours groups to several areas of the country. Bill’s three sons, his daughters-in-law, and his four grandchildren were truly the lights of his life. He was happiest when spending time with family and traveled often to visit them. A family trip to Disney World was a true highlight. Bill is survived by his wife Joanne, son Phillip (Julie) of North Liberty, IA, son Kent of St. Louis, MO, and son Monte (Melissa) of Golden, CO, grandchildren Sophia and Lauren of North Liberty; Reegan and Quinn of Golden. Brother Ron Bride (Phyllis) of Bloomfield, IA. He was preceded in death by his parents and his grandparents Charles and Effie (Watts) Bride and Guy and Nellie (Piper) Hill. A celebration of life gathering will be held from 2-5:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 12, 2021 at the Bloomfield United Methodist Church. Military rites will be performed at 2:00 p.m. at the church. Wagler Funeral Home in Bloomfield is in charge of arrangements and online condolences may be directed to www.waglerfuneralhome.com.