John Macaulay Bruton

John, who was born an American citizen in Mexico City in 1937, felt happiest in Mexico surrounded by a people and culture he loved.

He will be remembered as both loving and intense, and a fervent believer in fairness as well as an inveterate cheater at Monopoly. His friends and family will miss his sharp wit, and sometimes tongue, and deep curiosity about people, history and the world. His passion for good company, probing conversation, rich food, fine wine and classic cocktails was surpassed only by his profound devotion to Frances, whom he married in 1960 aged 23.

A graduate of Duke University, John spent three decades fostering U.S.-Mexico ties through his work at the American Chamber of Commerce of Mexico, the largest such organization outside of the U.S. His fervent belief and advocacy of free trade culminated with the passage and implementation of NAFTA, which he had been deeply involved with promoting on both sides of the Mexican and U.S. border. For his service and devotion, was awarded the “Aguila Azteca” (the Aztec Eagle), the Mexican government’s most prestigious award bestowed on foreigners.

After his tenure at AmCham, John became the Managing Director for ManattJones Global Strategies’ Mexico office, which he led for a decade. In addition, he was a dedicated contributor to the board of Corporación del Fuerte.

His enthusiastic community involvement enriched organizations such as Christ Church Anglican/Episcopal, the American Benevolent Society, the American British Cowdray (ABC) Hospital, the University Club, the Academia de Música del Palacio de Minería and Fomento Educacional, all of which benefited greatly from his leadership, mentorship, insightfulness and above all, his kindness, joyfulness, and friendship.

John’s memory will be cherished by Frances and their children Alex, Mac and Brinley, as well as to his grandchildren Brinley, Sophia, Claire, Ana Cecilia and John, brother and sister Grant and Georgia, sisters-in-law Julia and Sylvia, daughters-in-law Ana and Wendy, and nieces, nephews and many friends.

Having lived a full and happy life with permanent ties on both sides of the border and friends around the world, John will be missed in Mexico, New Orleans and throughout.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations be made to:

Christ Church Anglican/Episcopal in Mexico City - www.christchurch.mx

Or

Trinity Episcopal Church, New Orleans - www.trinitynola.com