Bruce Allen Middleton, Jr., J.D.

Bruce died suddenly on September 9, 2023 in Philadelphia, PA. He was raised in Vineland, New Jersey by his parents, Dr. Bruce Middleton and Lois (Burg) Middleton. Childhood summers were spent at the family summer home in Ocean City, New Jersey, where Bruce enjoyed sailing with his father and brothers on their boat Prometheus.

Following graduation from St. Augustine Preparatory School in Richland, NJ, Bruce attended Tulane University and LaSalle University, where he graduated cum laude in 1990 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology. In May 1993 Bruce was awarded a Juris Doctor degree from Temple University School of Law. He also completed the Addictions Certificate Program at the Community College of Philadelphia, working for many years in the field of addiction treatment, holding positions at The Bridge Outpatient Services, Chestnut Hill Hospital, Al-Assist, Alcohol Counseling and Recovery Program, and Mercy Hospital of Philadelphia.

Between 1991 and 1994, Bruce worked as a law clerk and pre-associate at the law firm of Margolis & Edelstein in Philadelphia, PA. He subsequently worked as an attorney in private practice until he was forced to retire due to disability.

In 2008 Bruce was recruited to provide pro bono legal advice to the Philadelphia nonprofit Citizens for Responsible Care & Research (CIRCARE). As a result of his outstanding service he was invited to join the board of directors and eventually became vice president of the organization. He held this position at the time of his death, and will be remembered by all who knew him at CIRCARE for his hard work and dedication to improving protection of humans in research during his years of exemplary service.

Bruce was active in formal and informal community service in many areas, taking satisfaction in activities such as helping his neighbors access city services and support programs. He served for years as the Democratic party poll worker in the 19th Division of the 7th Ward in the Kensington neighborhood of Philadelphia, PA. He also volunteered in multiple capacities to address chronic neighborhood challenges and frequently participated in organized clean-ups of lots spoiled by illegal dumping.

Bruce's interests and hobbies were wide-ranging—from computers and vintage animation to rock & gem collecting and jewelry making. Music was an essential part of Bruce's life, and he was a life-long listener to the Star's End radio program.

Bruce is survived by his brothers, Craig and William "Wally"; sisters-in-law, Diane (Coyle) Middleton of Egg Harbor Township and Maira (Roca) Middleton of Ocean City; nephew, Jackson David of Egg Harbor Township; and nieces, Brielle Alexandra of St. Augustine,  FL, and Brooke Ashleigh of Ocean City. His loss is mourned by his friends Angela Burgos, Dianne Cagan, Beau Stengel, Mike and Kay Roberson, Liz Woeckner, Frank Bartell, Jon Bartell and many fellowship constituents.

Family and friends will miss the unique combination of intelligence, empathy and humility for which Bruce was so loved.

Donations in memory of Bruce may be made to the William Way Community Center, 1315 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107

Family and friends are invited to gather for a viewing on Saturday, Sept. 16th from 10:00-11:00 am at the Wainwright-Bernhardt Funeral Home, 1024 E. Landis Ave. Vineland, NJ. The funeral service will begin at 11:00 am. Following the service, Bruce will be laid to rest in Siloam Cemetery, Vineland.

Condolences may be shared with the family at www.wbfuneralhome.com

Arrangements are in the care of Wainwright-Bernhardt Funeral Home, Vineland, NJ.