Bruce R. Wilby

Bruce R. Wilby, a lifelong resident of Easthampton, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on July 19th at home, surrounded by his family.

Bruce was born on May 3, 1950 in Northampton to Horace and Marjorie (Kendrew) Wilby. Bruce and his older brother Barry grew up on Holyoke Street, where they enjoyed playing sports, biking to the community pool at Nonotuck Park, and participating in boy scouts. Bruce attended Maple St. School and graduated from Easthampton High School. He then furthered his education at the University of Massachusetts at Amherst.

Bruce began his professional career at JPS Elastomerics, where his father worked. He quickly advanced from the factory floor to the plant manager. Later, Bruce took the role of business manager for the new roofing division, transforming it into the fastest growing segment of the company.

Just before 1980, Bruce’s life changed when he met Lisa at Canal Bowling Lanes in Southampton. After first seeing Lisa, he turned to a friend and said, “I will marry that girl.” Bruce and Lisa married within a year and welcomed three children soon thereafter: Keri, Brian and Kevin. Upon starting a family, he purchased his parents’ house on Coed Drive, where he lived for the rest of his life. At this same time, Bruce’s career soared, and he became president of JPS in 1993, earning the reputation as “The President with the Human Touch.” Having come up through the ranks, he always emphasized that dedication and hard work can lead to career advancement.

In 2001, Bruce joined Argotec and used his skills to grow the company during his time as COO, President, and eventually Chairman. Bruce’s leadership was evident in the widespread impact he made on so many people’s lives. He was always able to balance the company’s success and ensure employee welfare. After retiring in 2014, Bruce devoted his time to his friends and family.

Bruce loved to watch and play sports. As a young adult he played softball for Szary Realty and later, Gerry’s Variety, where the team amassed 78 consecutive wins in the Easthampton Men’s League - a record that holds to this day. Many of his teammates remained close friends throughout his life. An avid sports fan, Bruce loved horse racing, but especially loved the Boston Red Sox. He encouraged his children to play sports because he believed it built character. He was known as an exceptional coach and expert strategist. His coaching success peaked while coaching his son Kevin’s Little League team, as they beat the famous Tom’s River New Jersey team in the Eastern US regional tournament in 2001.

Another passion of Bruce’s was traveling. Bruce had the opportunity to travel extensively for his job across the country, and overseas. He made a point to plan many family vacations to give his children broad experiences and exposures, helping shape them as they grew up. There were many over the years, to Cape Cod, Big Sur, Florida, Europe, and his very favorite: St. John. Even after his health limited his participation, he always prioritized ways to enable his family to still have those experiences. The only requirement was to send him plenty of pictures.

Cape Cod holds a special place in Bruce’s heart. Bruce and Lisa purchased their first Cape house in 1988. Since then, Bruce and his family have spent many summers, holidays, and long weekends enjoying the beautiful location. He loved taking trips to Old Silver Beach, attending Cape Cod Baseball League games, visiting the Chart Room, and watching the sunset with a glass of Kendall Jackson at Capestone. Whether it was the annual pumpkin carving event, or the occasional toaster throw, he always liked to keep things light-hearted and loved being with friends and family. He loved cooking meals, especially his famous grilled swordfish. His smile lit up the room and his laugh was contagious.

Bruce is survived by his beloved wife of 44 years, Lisa (Johnson) Wilby, his loving children Keri Guyette (Eric), Brian Wilby and Kevin Wilby (Katie), his grandchildren: Mayla, Addison, Ramona, Ethan, Ovie, Stevie, and Nolan, and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. He also leaves behind his faithful yellow lab, Rose, who will miss having peanut butter toast with him each morning.  Bruce was predeceased by his parents, Horace and Marjorie Wilby, his brother Barry Wilby, father-in-law Gerald Johnson, and nephew Ahmad Faiky.

Our family would like to thank the caring and compassionate staff of Cooley Dickinson VNA and Hospice, especially Kim and Wendy. In addition, we would like to thank Elsa, Wanda, and Naomi for assisting with Bruce’s care at home.

Bruce had a wonderful life, touching many people and leaving a lasting legacy. He will be dearly missed. Rest in Peace, Bruce. We love you.

Calling hours are Thursday July 25 from 4:00 - 6:00 at Mitchell Funeral Home in Easthampton. Service is Friday July 26 at 11:00 at Mitchell Funeral Home. Burial is in Brookside Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Cooley Dickinson VNA and Hospice or to the Lewy Body Dementia Association https://www.lbda.org/donate/

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