Hattie Mae Sims Bruce

Hatti Mae Sims Bruce, 90, of Waco, had her sunset on Sunday, June 28, 2026.

Services will be held on Friday, July 10, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Wilkirson-Hatch-Bailey Funeral Home in the Chapel, with a reception to follow in the Garden Room.

Hattie Mae Sims Bruce was born on March 14, 1936, in Waco, Texas, to Agnetta Sims. She matriculated through the Waco Independent School District, graduating from A. J. Moore High School in 1954, where she was a star basketball player.

Hattie began her career at the early age of sixteen at Piccadilly Cafeteria. She later advanced to become a professional baker for many years. After marrying and moving to Germany, she worked as a Recreational Assistant. Upon returning to Waco, she became an entrepreneur by opening Hattie's Day Care. Over the years, she nurtured many children of single mothers, affording them the opportunity to continue their education. Years later, the children and their parents continued to reach out to express their gratitude.

She married Wesley Williams in 1954. To this union, two children were born: Carlas Drake and Pamela K. Williams. Wesley preceded her in death.

Hattie later met and married the love of her life, John Bruce, affectionately known as "Rico." She truly enjoyed being the wife of a U.S. Army Master Sergeant. She also loved dancing, playing bingo, shopping, bowling, and meeting and talking with people. She was outspoken yet always loving and kind.

At an early age, Hattie accepted Christ. She remained a faithful witness throughout her life and was never ashamed to share the Gospel.

Hattie was preceded in death by her husband, John Bruce; her mother, Agnetta Sims; her brothers, Ray Martin, Jr., and Sammie Robertson; her sister, Imogene Johnson; her great-grandsons, Cain Burleson and Caleb Rauls; three nephews; and one niece.

She leaves to cherish her memory her son, Carlas Williams, Sr. (Sherry) of Waco; her daughter, Pamela Harris-Ball (George) of Elk Grove, California; her grandchildren, Marcus Burleson (Michelle), Kevin Murphy, Kylie Rauls (Ara, Jr.), Carlas Williams, Jr., and LorVictor Jefferson; eleven great-grandchildren; her devoted goddaughter, Evelyn Smith; and a host of extended family members and dear friends.

The family invites you to leave a message or memory of Hattie on her “Tribute Wall” at www.WHBfamily.com.