James E. Bruin Sr. Obituary
James E. Bruin Sr., 81, of Benton Harbor, Michigan, passed away peacefully on Wednesday evening, August 26, 2026, at Corewell Health Merlin & Carolyn Hanson Hospice Center in Stevensville, Michigan.
James was born on July 1, 1945, in Joiner, Arkansas, the son of Johnnie Sr. and Lucinda (Hale) Bruin. He was a 1965 graduate of Phelix High School in Marion, Arkansas. Following high school, James proudly answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Army. He served for two years and was honorably discharged in 1967. Shortly afterward, he made his home in Benton Harbor, where he began a long and dedicated career with Bosch Braking Systems in Saint Joseph. James remained with the company until his retirement in 2003.
On September 6, 1969, James married the love of his life, Emma J. McDonald. Together, they built a life centered around faith, family, and the simple joys of being together. Their marriage was a lasting partnership filled with many years of shared memories.
James' faith was a meaningful and steady part of his life. He was a longtime and devoted member of Israelite Missionary Baptist Church in Benton Harbor, where he taught Bible study and Sunday school. He treasured his church family and found great joy in sharing his faith and encouraging others.
A man who enjoyed taking pride in his home, James was known for his beautifully manicured lawn and his ability to fix just about anything. He was especially handy and enjoyed working on small electrical projects around the house. Whether he was tending to his yard or working with his hands on a project, James took satisfaction in doing things well and caring for the home he shared with his family.
Above all, James was a devoted family man. He cherished the time spent with those he loved and especially looked forward to family gatherings, holidays, and any opportunity to have everyone together. Those moments of laughter, conversation, and togetherness were among the things he treasured most.
James will be remembered for his strong faith, his hardworking nature, his willingness to lend a helping hand, and, most of all, the love he had for his family. His presence brought strength and comfort to those around him, and the memories he created with his loved ones will remain in their hearts for years to come.
Surviving are his wife of 56 years, Emma Bruin; seven children, Brenda Evans, Tony Williams, Phyllis (Renee) Johnson, Shannon Cates, James Bruin Jr, Marvin Bruin, and Cassandra (Chad) Covington; eight grandchildren, Kevyn (Natasha) Evans, Alanis Wright, Courtnee Bruin, JMarie Fowler, Johnny Crews, Malik King, McKenzie Covington and Mikalya Covington; four great-grandchildren; two sisters, Climie (George Sr) Anthony, and Barbara Addison; and two sisters-in-law, Mable Bruins and Barbara Bruins; and a host of nieces, nephews and extended family.
Preceding him in death were his parents; and four brothers, John Bruins, Rev. Joe Bruins, Johnny Bruins, and Charles Bruins.
A service to celebrate James’ life will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, September 5, 2026, at Israelite Missionary Baptist Church, 1715 Highland Ave, Benton Harbor, MI 49022, where friends may visit with his family from 10:00 AM until the time of service. Interment with military honors will be at North Shore Memory Gardens, Coloma, MI.
Arrangements are entrusted to Starks & Menchinger Chapel, St. Joseph. Those wishing to sign James’s Memory Book online may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com.
