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Bruce C. Souder

Date of Death: December 31, 1969

Reverend Dr. Bruce C. Souders

Reverend Dr. Bruce Chester Souders, 91, of Frederick County, Virginia, died Sunday, February 12, 2012, in his home, surrounded by his loved ones.

Dr. Souders was born in 1920, in Richland, Pennsylvania, the son of the late Ray and Sue Souders. He was a Professor, Educator, and Minister at Lebanon Valley College where he was the Director of Public Relations. Dr. Souders came to Winchester in 1961 to head the Humanities, English and Philosophy Departments at Shenandoah College. He helped the College attain University Status in 1975.

Dr. Souders was a graduate of Lebanon High School, Class of 1939; Lebanon Valley College graduating in 1944 earning a degree in English and History. He received a Master of Theology Degree in 1947 at United Theological Seminary in Dayton Ohio. Dr. Souders retired in 1989 from Shenandoah University. He received an Honorary Degree from Shenandoah University on December 13, 1996.

Dr. Souders was a member of Braddock Street United Methodist Church in Winchester and was involved in countless organizations and charities.

He married Patricia Bartles on August 18, 1945 in Pennsylvania.

Surviving with his wife is his son, Gregory A Souders of Winchester, Virginia; sister, Agnes Souders of Pennsylvania and brother, Ralph Souders of Iowa.

One sister, Verna Souders and one brother, Raymon Souders, preceded him in death.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, at Omps Funeral Home, Amherst Chapel, with Reverend Dr. Daniel L. Garrett and Reverend Wm. Anthony Layman officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Epilepsy Foundation, 8301 Professional Place, Landover, Maryland, 20785- 7223.

Please view obituaries and tribute wall at www.ompsfuneralhome.com.

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Reverend Dr. Bruce C. Souders Reverend Dr. Bruce Chester Souders, 91, of Frederick County, Virginia, died Sunday, February 12, 2012, in his home, surrounded by his loved ones. Dr. Souders was born in 1920, in Richland, Pennsylvania, the son of the late Ray and Sue Souders. He was a Professor, Educator, and Minister at LebanonContinue Reading

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christina smith left a message on February 14, 2012:
In honor of Bruce C. Souder, christina smith lit a candle.
Christiana Campbell left a message on February 21, 2012:
My deepest sympathy goes to Mrs. Souders and her family. I met Dr. Souders once on a trip to the Washington Cathedral years ago and I remember the wonderful conversation I had with him. Mrs. Souders has has done very much for me at Literacy Volunteers years ago and i will never forget the help I got from her. Sincerely, Chris Campbell
Ann Souders Brom left a message on February 20, 2012:
Advice to My Eulogist (If there be one) If, when that time comes for me to leave, you feel compelled to say a word or two, do make it brief. Make it true to life I pray. Since sainthood never was my forte, icons and hagiographies ill suit the memory you mold. I was no subject on a frieze. Remember, I was alive--loving and hating, winning and losing, praying and cursing. Only God's grace can salvage the little worth remembering. by Bruce Souders from his collection of poems "Fitting the Pieces Together" My favorite uncle, with a word or two and many tears I remember you. Loving and praying, laughing and caring-- by God's grace there is much worth remembering. Your loving niece, Ann
Cathy Albert Terrell left a message on February 19, 2012:
Bruce's life was one well-lived, being involved not only in religion, but also education and community. I knew him at Lebanon Valley College, and reconnected with him when I visited Shenandoah University. That equals many years of fond memories. To Pat and Bruce's family, I send you all a message of comfort and love. Dr. J. Ross Albert, LVC '47 (Lovingly transcribed by Ross's daughter, Cathy. Ross's vision prevents him from typing.)
Melinda Russell left a message on February 17, 2012:
I have many memories of Dr. Souders at Shenandoah Conservatory in the 70s. I can still picture him teaching me in class where I learned that he was so intelligent in writing and religion as well as in music. He was also quite a historian and attended many historical society meetings with my mother. May you rest in peace Dr. Souders. And to Mrs. Souders and Gregory, you both are in my thoughts and prayers.
Peace of mind is a call away. We're here when you need us most.
Melinda Russell left a message on February 17, 2012:
I have many memories of Dr. Souders at Shenandoah Conservatory in the 70s. I can still picture him teaching me in class where I learned that he was so intelligent in writing and religion as well as in music. He was also quite a historian and attended many historical society meetings with my mother. May you rest in peace Dr. Souders. And to Mrs. Souders and Gregory, you both are in my thoughts and prayers.
christina smith left a message on February 16, 2012:
I miss you
Sherri Hipkins left a message on February 15, 2012:
Dr Souders I thank God for bringing us into each others life ,although I only got to know you for 2 years you have taught me so much, the talks we had of everything under the sun will always play a part in my life . Thank you from the bottom of my heart
Sherri Hipkins left a message on February 15, 2012:
In honor of Bruce C. Souder, Sherri Hipkins lit a candle.
Beth Huddleston left a message on February 15, 2012:
Dr. Sounders mentored so many individuals through his love of writing. His presence was always a joy. So many people will carry special memories of him.
Beth Huddleston left a message on February 15, 2012:
In honor of Bruce C. Souder, Beth Huddleston lit a candle.
Mary Malcolm Moore left a message on February 15, 2012:
In honor of Bruce C. Souder, Mary Malcolm Moore lit a candle.
Wanda Auge left a message on February 15, 2012:
Aunt Pat and Cousin Greg, My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. Love, Wanda (Sis)
Joel Stegall left a message on February 15, 2012:
I remember Bruce with great admiration and affection from my years at Shenandoah University. Shortly after I arrived in the fall of 1990, I felt more public attention should be paid to the rich and colorful history of the University. Bruce graciously shared a wealth of historical information in his files and in his memory. We continued to work together as for years he wrote the text for honorary degrees. One of my prized possessions is a poem Bruce dedicated to me on the occasion of my retirement in 2002, "Reflections After the Siege at Bethlehem." Shenandoah University, and all of us who were privileged to call him friend, are richer because of Bruce Souders.
Christina Smith left a message on February 14, 2012:
I will miss you more than you can imagine. I'll never forget all the laughs we shared. I will treasure the time I cared for you. I love you Dr. Souders
Joanne Pryor left a message on February 14, 2012:
In honor of Bruce C. Souder, Joanne Pryor lit a candle.
public.user left a message on January 30, 2013:
1 file added to the tribute wall
Melissa Pryor and Family left a message on February 14, 2012:
In honor of Bruce C. Souder, Melissa Pryor and Family lit a candle.
Teresa Alpy left a message on February 14, 2012:
In honor of Bruce C. Souder, Teresa Alpy lit a candle.
Melisa Pryor left a message on February 14, 2012:
Thank you for your friendship, love and laughter my wonderful friend. You have touched so many of us and left an impact for life! I will love you like a grandfather and never stop speaking of you. So very happy you are at peace and in God's home. All our love, Melissa, Mike, Kelly, Sophia and Berk
Peace of mind is a call away. We're here when you need us most.
Melisa Pryor left a message on February 14, 2012:
Melisa Pryor uploaded an image to the slideshow.
heather ricketts left a message on February 14, 2012:
Dr Souders I am so honored to have been able to spend time with you and you are a great inspiration too many. Thankyou for all the knowledge and memories you shared with me. I will always be holding your hand. I love and miss you Dr!!
heather ricketts left a message on February 14, 2012:
In honor of Bruce C. Souder, heather ricketts lit a candle.
public.user left a message on January 30, 2013:
My deepest sympathy goes to Mrs. Souders and her family. I met Dr. Souders once on a trip to the Washington Cathedral years ago and I remember the wonderful conversation I had with him. Mrs. Souders has has done very much for me at Literacy Volunteers years ago and i will never forget the help I got from her. Sincerely, Chris Campbell
public.user left a message on January 30, 2013:
Advice to My Eulogist (If there be one) If, when that time comes for me to leave, you feel compelled to say a word or two, do make it brief. Make it true to life I pray. Since sainthood never was my forte, icons and hagiographies ill suit the memory you mold. I was no subject on a frieze. Remember, I was alive--loving and hating, winning and losing, praying and cursing. Only God's grace can salvage the little worth remembering. by Bruce Souders from his collection of poems "Fitting the Pieces Together" My favorite uncle, with a word or two and many tears I remember you. Loving and praying, laughing and caring-- by God's grace there is much worth remembering. Your loving niece, Ann
public.user left a message on January 30, 2013:
I have many memories of Dr. Souders at Shenandoah Conservatory in the 70s. I can still picture him teaching me in class where I learned that he was so intelligent in writing and religion as well as in music. He was also quite a historian and attended many historical society meetings with my mother. May you rest in peace Dr. Souders. And to Mrs. Souders and Gregory, you both are in my thoughts and prayers.
public.user left a message on January 30, 2013:
I have many memories of Dr. Souders at Shenandoah Conservatory in the 70s. I can still picture him teaching me in class where I learned that he was so intelligent in writing and religion as well as in music. He was also quite a historian and attended many historical society meetings with my mother. May you rest in peace Dr. Souders. And to Mrs. Souders and Gregory, you both are in my thoughts and prayers.
public.user left a message on January 30, 2013:
Dr Souders I thank God for bringing us into each others life ,although I only got to know you for 2 years you have taught me so much, the talks we had of everything under the sun will always play a part in my life . Thank you from the bottom of my heart
public.user left a message on January 30, 2013:
Dr. Sounders mentored so many individuals through his love of writing. His presence was always a joy. So many people will carry special memories of him.
public.user left a message on January 30, 2013:
Aunt Pat and Cousin Greg, My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. Love, Wanda (Sis)
public.user left a message on January 30, 2013:
I remember Bruce with great admiration and affection from my years at Shenandoah University. Shortly after I arrived in the fall of 1990, I felt more public attention should be paid to the rich and colorful history of the University. Bruce graciously shared a wealth of historical information in his files and in his memory. We continued to work together as for years he wrote the text for honorary degrees. One of my prized possessions is a poem Bruce dedicated to me on the occasion of my retirement in 2002, "Reflections After the Siege at Bethlehem." Shenandoah University, and all of us who were privileged to call him friend, are richer because of Bruce Souders.
Omps Funeral Home left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
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