Bruce McDuffie
Bruce McDuffie, of Chattanooga, died on September 12, 2014, at 93.
Bruce was born on August 25, 1921 in Atlanta, Georgia, the son of Dr. Harold Fritz McDuffie and Hattie Louise Ferguson McDuffie. Bruce attended Boys High School in Atlanta and Princeton University, where he earned a bachelor's degree and a PhD in Analytical Chemistry.
He was predeceased by his parents and by one brother, Dr. Robert McDuffie.
Bruce is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Winifred Groover McDuffie, as well as his three devoted children, Susan Ferguson McDuffie of Santa Fe, N.M., John Groover McDuffie of Los Angeles, CA, and Judie McDuffie Churchill of Durham, N.H. (husband, John); three grandsons, Robert (wife, Meghan), Sean, and Zachary Churchill; and one great-grandchild, Wyatt Churchill. Other survivors include his brother, Fritz McDuffie of Oak Ridge (wife, Bette); sister, Mary Elizabeth McDuffie Allen of Los Angeles; brother-in-law, Charles Groover of Lakemont, Ga. (wife, Jacquie); and numerous nephews and nieces. He also leaves a half-brother in Jacksonville, Fl.
Bruce taught analytical chemistry at Emory University, Washington and Jefferson College, and for many years at SUNY Binghamton. His students dubbed him “the smiling assassin” for his pleasant demeanor and strict grading policies. Bruce made international headlines in 1970 when, testing a can of tuna from Wini’s kitchen, he discovered high levels of methyl mercury in tuna fish and, subsequently, in swordfish. He remained very active in environmental studies and chemistry until his retirement from teaching in 1988.
Bruce and Wini moved from Binghamton, N.Y., to Chattanooga in 1990 to be close to Wini’s aunt and uncle, George and Virginia Power, and other nearby family.
Bruce enjoyed many interests in his long and full life. He was active in the peace and civil rights movements and his family is proud that he participated in the 1963 March on Washington. He volunteered with voter registration and the Big Brothers program.
At age 60, Bruce rediscovered running and participated in numerous races and triathlons. He earned many medals, including a first place in his age group on his 75th birthday. Bruce played golf avidly and enjoyed music and singing throughout his life. He took up painting and leaves behind many beautiful paintings and will also be remembered for his unique sense of humor.
Interested in his Scottish heritage, Bruce served several terms as president of the MacDuffee Clan Society of America. He remained devoted to his alma mater, and for many years volunteered as chairman of the annual giving campaigns for his Princeton class of 1942.
Bruce was a loving husband, father, and brother and will be sorely missed. The family extends their grateful thanks to Bruce’s devoted caregivers and to Hospice of Chattanooga for making his transition comfortable and peaceful. A memorial service will be scheduled at a later date. Donations in Bruce’s memory may be made to Princeton University, the American Friends Service Committee or to Hospice of Chattanooga.
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Arrangements are by Lane Funeral Home, Ashland Terrace, 877-3524.