Bruce Tunnicliffe, 63, of Smithville, TN passed away on April 13th, 2025 at his home in Smithville. He was born on March 7, 1963 in Levittown, New Jersey. His parents were Margaret (Dunn) and Andrew Tunnicliffe. Bruce spent the majority of his childhood in Long Beach Island, New Jersey, where he also graduated from high school. He spent much of his young adult life working in restaurants in Atlantic City, where he found his passion for the culinary arts.
Bruce Tunnicliffe is survived by his life partner, Debra Chausse; his son, Ethan Tunnicliffe and Ethan’s mother Denise Gershenson Tunnicliffe; his sisters Mary and Pat; and his grandchildren, Skylar and Grace Chausse. He was preceded in death by his parents, Andrew and Margaret.
He worked as a chef up and down the east coast before he finally landed at the Whistle Stop in Baxter, TN. He most recently worked at Walmart in Smithville for five years before retiring last March. He loved playing the drums, fishing, and enjoying the beauty of nature. Bruce was best known for his smile that warmed everybody’s hearts.
A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, April 21st at 4pm at Refuge Church, 303 Public Square, Smithville, TN 37166. Pastor Grayden Kirksey will be officiating the service.
Bruce’s family has honored his final wishes to have him cremated. DeKalb Funeral Chapel is honored to care for the Tunnicliffe family.
Bruce will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
