Bruce Atchley Bannon

Bruce Atchley Bannon, age 69, ended his earthly journey Monday, January 26, 2026, following a long illness. Bruce was a loving father and grandfather, a devoted son, a faithful friend, and a cherished brother.

Bruce attended Holy Name, graduated Magna Cum Laude from Jesuit High School, attended the University of Tennessee, finished his BS degree at Louisiana State University, where he minored in DKE, and obtained a law degree from Loyola Law School.

When he retired from law, he followed his father’s footsteps in steadfastly volunteering at the National World War II Museum, eventually giving them over 10,000 hours of his time and dedication. Bruce attended Trinity Episcopal Church where he faithfully attended the 12 Steps for Everyone Sunday class and was Crucifer and Chalice Bearer at primarily the 8:00 AM service.

Bruce was a history buff with an incredible memory. He could have easily been a successful participant on Jeopardy. He loved all things Beatles, dressed for years as a Pirate for Mardi Gras, and coordinated monthly family gatherings on Taco Tuesdays, which is still a treasured tradition. He will be missed by family and friends for his “Bruce” smile, his kind nature, his “quote of the day”, his bad driving, his love of travel, and his fondness for the color blue.

He is survived by his daughters, Payton Olson (Corey) and Erin Raines (Chase), his five grandchildren, Copper, Colette and Penny Olson, and Evelyn and Charlotte Raines, his sisters, Kathy Eastman (John), Nancy Beck, and Erin Heaton, his brother, Bobby Baile Oakes, and his many nieces and nephews.

The family is grateful for the caregivers at Avanti Assisted Living and Forest Manor Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. Should anyone wish to make a donation in Bruce’s honor, please consider the National World War II Museum or Trinity Episcopal Church.

A celebration of Bruce’s life will be held Friday, January 30, 2026 at Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home, 5100 Pontchartrain Blvd. New Orleans, LA. Visitation will be from 9 AM to 11 AM with a service to begin at 11 AM. Private Inurnment will follow.