Bobby was born in Birmingham Alabama October 5, 1934. The eldest son of Rex Burl Cruce and Bertie Lee Jackson.
Bobby was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Peggy Sue Allums; first wife, Patsy Ruth Haney; last wife Myra Sue Wooten; and son, Barry Kiplan Cruce. He is survived by his son, Vann Kenton Cruce, Arley Alabama; daughter, Malynda Kelly Cruce Kamm (Vince), Pell City, Alabama; granddaughter, Holly Michelle Cruce, Arley, Alabama; grandson, Zachary James Cruce, Birmingham, Alabama; granddaughter Kaitlyn Alexis Kamm and great-grandson Kain Johnson. Brother, Jerry Wayne Cruce (Mary Sue), Dora, Alabama; Brother-in-law, Truman Allums, Dora, Alabama and many wonderful nieces and nephews that thought the world of Uncle Bobby.
He attended Corner High School and graduated in 1953 and hosted class reunions to stay in contact with class members over the years.
Bobby entered into the Masonic organization in 1956 and in 1957 he was dubbed Knight a member of the Valiant and Magnanimous Order of the Temple, World of the Knights Templar. His character was exhibited by how he dealt with people and presented himself to the world.
After graduation he purchased a gas station which began his track of leadership and entrepreneurial beginnings. He met and married his first wife Pat and raised three children: Kip, Vann and Kelly in Montgomery. He enlisted in the Army and fulfilled his duty to the country in 1964. After the Army he began working for Pet Milk Company as a salesman. Working in the food industry opened an opportunity to work for Phillips Brokerage Company. They brokered goods for food institutions and grocery warehouses between the manufacturers. Phillips Brokerage Company’s reputation was highly regarded and covered the whole southeast. He learned the business through hard knocks and was challenged to see if he had what it took to run a business. Bill Phillips Sr., the president, and Bobby, vice president along with the staff of a couple hundred employees won numerous awards and accolades in the industries for sales and involvement in worthy causes. Bobby and Bill ran operations in Birmingham, Montgomery, Dothan and Mobile. He was 25% owner until 1996 when the business was sold.
He enjoyed traveling and experienced many countries. The connection and prestige of being a Vice President allowed him to associate with many prominent people but he never lost his sense of self engaging with all classes of people.
During his retirement years he invested and operated K&V automotive and Cruce Properties. Over time his business skills turned to property management which allowed him to purchase tracts of land on the lake to build a subdivision along with commercial buildings.
Also during his retirement years he married Sue his high school classmate. They were together until her death in 2021.
He took care of business and knew how to conduct business was his lifelong commitment to his craft. He had a unique business sense and gained tremendous knowledge in the world markets.
Bobby loved nature and watching wildlife. At one point his pond was a host to a Bald Eagle. He was so excited to see such a magnificent bird.
He was a big Auburn fan and loved watching the Atlanta Braves play. He sported hats and jackets to show support for his team. He attended games over the years and really enjoyed the action. His enthusiasm didn’t stop at the college level he had the opportunity to travel to California and see Super Bowl 19 San Francisco 49ers 38 to Miami Dolphins 16.
He was a man of few words but when he spoke people took note of what he had to say. Learning the world on his own terms he never let the lack of a college degree prevent him from succeeding beyond his dreams. He knew how to invest and took chances not only in business but on individuals trying to make the world a better place by lending a helping hand to those who were in need. He assisted many people in the community and remained humble.
He cherished his time with his family and took pride in the strong will and determination he passed to his children and grandchildren.
The family would like to acknowledge the caregivers, Amedisys Hospice, Dr. Casey Long, Ed Parish and Sara LaPlante of The Parish Law Firm, many friends and neighbors who have watched over him during his decline these past years.
He will be missed by many and greeted in heaven by loved ones he misses.
The family will receive visitation from friends Wednesday, June 29th from 1:00 pm to 2:00 in the Chapel at Alabama Heritage Funeral Home, 10505 Atlanta Hwy., Montgomery, Alabama 36117. Funeral service will be 2:00 pm and graveside service to follow.
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