Bruce Donald Jackson

Bruce Donald Jackson, 65 years old, passed away peacefully on August 20th, 2022, in Williamsville, New York at Elderwood-Williamsville following a recent decline in his health. He was surrounded by the love of family, friends, and caregivers throughout his life and in his final days.

Bruce was predeceased by his parents Audrey Proctor Jackson (2021) and Donald E. Jackson (1986) both of whom had a lifelong commitment to his happiness, growth, and well-being in so many ways. Bruce is survived by his sister Judi Jackson (Robert Hanson), sister Laurie Johnson (Jim Johnson), sister Cindy Robinson (Chris Robinson), and nieces and nephews, Sarah Jackson, Anna Orbison (James), Christian Robinson (Dana), Zachary Robinson (Jordan), Emma Robinson (fiancé Alex), Kelsey Johnson, Abbey Johnson and great-niece, Belle Audrey Bonnell.

Bruce was born and raised in (Ewing) Trenton, New Jersey. As an individual with Down’s Syndrome, he was supported throughout his life to learn many skills and to be an important part of his family and network of friends. Bruce participated in many programs through the Mercer ARC, completed schooling at Lanning Elementary and worked in vocational programs through the Mercer ARC. Bruce was actively involved in Special Olympics for many years in golf, basketball, softball, swimming, and skiing. He served at Mass for many years at Incarnation Church and was a 4th Degree Member of the Knights of Columbus in Ewing Township, New Jersey.

Bruce and his mother Audrey moved to sister Cindy Robinson’s home in East Amherst, New York over 10 years ago. In the Buffalo area, Bruce was welcomed and supported by all the Robinson family and many special friends. He became active with the Newman Center at University of Buffalo and served as an usher for several years.

Bruce loved spending time with his family and dog Duffy, beach vacations, swimming in the ocean, wearing his tux, visits from his friend Batman, playing UNO (and winning), Christmas time, leaving out cookies for Santa, attending weddings and celebrations, boating and fishing, traveling, his Sunday suit and tie, and watching Mash, Andy Griffith, and Gomer Pyle. Most importantly, he loved and was guided by his mother Audrey, his strongest advocate, for 65 years.

Bruce inspired the best in all of us, a special love for everyone, his sense of joy, his smile, and his feeling that “it’s a wonderful day” every day. He will be greatly missed for all that he has taught us.

Friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial and Celebration of Bruce's Life Saturday, November 12th at 10 AM in the Newman Center, 495 Skinnersville Road, Amherst.

In recognition of the lifelong support Bruce received as a child and adult with special needs, contributions can be made to The ARC Mercer (arcmercer.org) or GiGi’s Playhouse, Buffalo (gigisplayhouse.org/buffalo).

The family would also like to express our gratitude to Bruce’s special friend and caregiver, Kathleen Hendricks, who has been an incredible support.