Helen was baptized at the age of 11 by Rev. George Baltimore, Pastor of New Bethel
Baptist Church, where she became an active and devoted member. She faithfully served on various committees, including Secretary to Leah Circle, Financial Secretary to the Women’s Bible Class #1, and as a member of the Senior Choir and Pastor’s Aide.
She attended IPS School #37, Crispus Attucks High School, Porter Business College,
and Madam C.J. Walker Beauty College, where she gained a strong foundation for her career and life’s work.
On July 13, 1942, Helen married Charles L. Bruce, and together they were blessed with two sons, Charles V. Bruce and Richard L. Bruce. She remarried Walter Coleman in July 1964, remaining with him until his death on March 6, 1974.
From 1942 to 1957, Helen assisted her husband Charles in running Bruce Pharmacy, the first Black-owned pharmacy in Indianapolis, which he established in 1932. After her time supporting the pharmacy, Helen went on to work for the Indiana State Nurses Association in 1962, where she served as Secretary for Program Directors. In 1972, her hard work and dedication were recognized with a promotion to Administrative Assistant to the Executive Director, a role she held until her retirement in 1985.
Even in retirement, Helen’s passion for service continued. She worked part-time at the Church Federation of Greater Indianapolis, Flanner House, and Louis Russell School #48, contributing her time and talents to causes she held dear.
Helen was preceded in death by her beloved sons, Charles V. Bruce, and Richard L.
Bruce; sisters: Julia White, Willa B. Dinkins, Bernice Swiney, Dorothy Crossin, and
Louise Means; and brothers: William Reed, Thurman Reed, Robert Reed, and Rev.
Kenneth Reed.
She is survived by her devoted daughters, Victoria Holmes (Bert) and Phi Dennis;
Grandsons, Charles V. Bruce, Jr. (Celeste) and Reginald A. Bruce (Nina);
Granddaughters, Sherri Hawkins (Ryan) and Tiffany Holmes; 16 cherished great-grandchildren; and 8 great-great-grandchildren, who will carry on her legacy of love and faith.
Helen’s life was marked by her unwavering commitment to her family, her church, and her community. She will be remembered for her warm smile, her servant’s heart, and the countless lives she touched.
