Bruce Stiles

Bruce Eric Stiles, aged 71, of Louisa County, peacefully passed away on November 3, 2025, at home, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born on July 8, 1954, Bruce was the son of the late Mildred Margaret Lorenz Stiles and John Joseph Stiles. He is survived by his devoted wife, Katherine Louise Sheridan Stiles, and his cherished children: John Stiles, Kelly Stiles Lenhardt and her husband Kevin, Erin Stiles and her partner Chris, Katie Stiles Spencer and her husband Gary, and Shannon Stiles. Bruce took immense pride in his grandchildren: Hunter, Rebekah, Morgan, Korrie, Jake, Christian, Alydia, Isleigh, Cullen, Hollin Gray, Lochlin, Laikyn, Lealani, and Carson, and his great grandson, Jace Stiles, who brought him great joy and fulfillment. He is also survived by his sisters, Bonnie Stiggins, Linda Brooks and her husband Scott, as well as his brother, John Stiles and his wife Diane, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and countless friends who will forever hold his memory dear.

Bruce was preceded in death by his parents, Mildred and John; his granddaughter, Reagan; and his brother, Paul Kelly.

Throughout his career, Bruce owned and operated an industrial construction company, where his craftsmanship and problem-solving left a mark across Virginia and beyond. Known for his sharp mind and meticulous attention to detail, he combined technical precision with creative artistry. Among his proudest accomplishments was his work on the restoration of the Virginia Governor’s Mansion — a project that remains a testament to his skill and pride in his craft.

A man of many talents, Bruce lived a life rich with laughter, curiosity, and quiet genius. He could build anything, fix everything, and find beauty in the smallest details. Curious and fearless in spirit, he was always learning, always tinkering, and always creating. He was an adventurer at heart — a lifelong bow and deer hunter who often reminisced about elk hunting in Montana, scuba diving in his youth, and deep-sea fishing (though the fish often got the better end of the deal). Bruce was a devoted gardener, endlessly inventive and never content to leave a problem unsolved or a new idea untested. He and Katherine also hosted the annual charity Chili Cook-Off to benefit the National Kidney Foundation, a cherished tradition that reflected his love for good food, humor, and making a positive impact.

Above all, Bruce deeply adored his wife, Katherine, and the family they created together, leaving behind a legacy of love and cherished memories.

A service and wake celebrating Bruce’s life will be held on Thursday, November 6, 2025, at his home in Louisa, VA (Earlyhouse), beginning at 2 p.m. (The service will be held graveside at Earlyhouse. Guests are encouraged to wear comfortable footwear.) In lieu of fresh flowers, a memorial garden will be planted next spring in Bruce’s honor. Friends who wish to contribute to the garden may do so through the family.

Bruce will be remembered for his humor, heart, ingenuity, and the warmth he extended to everyone he met, making them feel like family.