Bruce DeLussa, 86, of Ocean City, NJ passed away peacefully at home on October 24, 2026.
Bruce was the son of the late Louis DeLussa and Violet Sungenis DeLussa. Born in Bridgeton, N.J., Bruce attended Immaculate Conception Grade School and later graduated in 1957 from Bridgeton High School where he was voted Best Dancer. In 1961, he earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Biology from Colorado State University where he served as social chairman and vice-president of Phi Kappa Tau fraternity. Later, in 1967, he earned his Masters Degree in Public Heath Administration from the University of Michigan’s School of Public Health.
Bruce’s lifelong commitment to public health included service with the Cumberland County, NJ State and NJ Regional Health Departments, as well as a federally-sponsored community health center. Bruce then joined the Stockton College faculty, where he developed and led the Public Health program for the last 25 years of his career. It was there that he discovered his passion for teaching. As a mentor, he took great pride in guiding the next generation of public health professionals. Bruce was honored by Stockton as “Professor Emeritus” in recognition of his efforts earning national accreditation for the Public Health program and the honor that he had brought to the college.
After retirement, Bruce had more time to relax – laughing with friends and family, fishing, playing golf, reading historical novels, and watching old sitcoms and movies late into the night. Bruce also found time to travel across the US and around the world with his wife who shared his curiosity.
Bruce loved reminiscing about his life’s journey, sharing stories of his family history, childhood antics, fraternity socials, and dating his wife-to-be. Once married, he and his wife created a lifetime of memories with their children and grandchildren – filled with adventures, holidays, celebrations, and all the little moments in between. Bruce was especially proud of his granddaughters, treasured each visit, and loved how they always made him laugh.
Family members, friends, colleagues and students all knew Bruce as someone who had a great sense of humor, a strong work ethic, and was always there for them. He valued those relationships and his only wish was that they could have had more time together. He will be truly missed by those who knew him well and loved him.
He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Sally-Jo Delph DeLussa, daughters Marnie DeLussa and Heather DeLussa (spouse Nick Ross), his beloved granddaughters Isabella and Olivia Ross, and his sister Joyce Dawson.
A private gathering to celebrate Bruce’s life will be held at a later date.
