Passed Away April 16, 2026
Terrance Bruce, age 72, of Fairport, is survived by his loving wife of 42 years, Kate; his sons, Andrew Thomas and Mark Terrance; and Mark’s wife, Kylie, along with their children, Emmett and Lennox, who will lovingly remember him as “Papa T.”
He is predeceased by his parents, Jesse and Evelyn; his brother, Kevin; and his sister, Evie. He is also survived by his brother, Vincent (Deborah); sister-in-law, Annette; and his nieces and nephews: Vincent Jr., James, Racquel, Jordynn, Cathy, and Ashanti.
He enjoyed a very close and special relationship with his brothers-in-law, Mark J. F. Schroeder and Thomas P. Schroeder, as well as the entire Schroeder family, all of whom loved him very much.
Terrance was an All-American athlete in football and track and field at Alfred University, graduating in 1977, and was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1989.
He also excelled at James Madison High School in Rochester, NY, where he was a member of the National Honor Society and earned All-City, All-State, and All-American honors in football, was a Section V Wrestling Champion, and a Section V Discus and Shot Put Champion.
At Alfred University, Terrance served as captain of both the football and track and field teams. He was a Track and Field All-American in the discus, setting a school record that still stands today. He earned ECAC All-Star honors and was recognized as one of the top football players of the year.
Terrance began his teaching career at Madison High School, where he coached football, track and field, and wrestling. He continued for many years as a music teacher in both the Rochester and Greece Central School Districts.
Terrance Bruce has been described in various interviews and reviews as a prominent American jazz saxophonist, best known for his work with the jazz fusion and smooth jazz band Cabo Frio. As a member of Cabo Frio, he played multiple instruments, including alto, tenor, and soprano saxophone, flute, and clarinet, and also contributed as a songwriter. Terrance was most known for “Hold that Note” and playing three saxophones at once.
The band recorded several albums and became a staple of jazz fusion in Upstate New York. Beyond these recordings, Terrance performed at prestigious venues such as the Newport Jazz Festival, Carnegie Hall, and the Blue Note in New York City. Throughout his career, he shared the stage with jazz legends including Miles Davis, Carlos Santana, and The Crusaders.
He loved being a father to his children, a husband to his wife, and part of a big, lively family. Being blessed with two beautiful grandsons to love and spend time with brought him immense joy.
Calling hours will be held at Richard Keenan Funeral Home, located at 7501 Pittsford-Palmyra Road, Fairport, NY 14450, on Saturday, May 2nd, from 12:00–2:00 PM.
A Celebration of Life will be held at White Haven Memorial Park All Seasons Chapel, located at 210 Marsh Road, Pittsford, NY 14534, on Sunday, May 3rd, at 11:00 AM.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in honor of Terrance Bruce. Contributions will be gratefully accepted by The Hochstein School, 50 North Plymouth Avenue, Rochester, NY 14614, or Breakthrough T1D (formerly JDRF), P.O. Box 5942, Hagerstown, MD 21741-5042.
37 responses to “Bruce, Terrance”
What a role model of successes! We were blessed to have him play at our daughter’s celebration of life. We will always remember.
Deepest condolences to the family, friends and all that had the opportunity to know this gentle King. Rest in paradise our beloved brother ♥️🙏🏿🌹💚🩷✝️🥰
Such a beautiful tribute to Terrance. So much love and joy radiating from your family. I love the photos. Rest in peace in paradise.
Mark, Kate and Andrew, we are so sorry for this loss, truly a special man who will be sorely missed. Our prayers are with you! Pat Patsy and Avery.
I am proud to carry the last name Bruce—a name rooted in legacy, music, and purpose.
Growing up, people would hear the last name and ask if I knew Terrance, and or played the saxophone. I’d smile and say, “No, I’m the singer—he’s the saxophonist.” And what a phenomenal saxophonist he was. His sound wasn’t just heard—it was felt. It carried soul, history, and a spirit that could move a room without a single word.
To be connected to that kind of gift, that kind of impact, is something I never take lightly. The name Bruce isn’t just a name—it’s a sound, it’s a calling, it’s a legacy that continues to live on through every note, every memory, and every life touched.
I carry it with honor. I carry it with gratitude. And I will continue to let it speak—through my voice, through my journey, and through the purpose God has placed in me. You’ll truly be missed Cousin Terrance Bruce.❤️😪
To my cousins; Kate, Andrew, Mark, Kylie, Emmett, Lennox,
Vincent (Debbie) Sister in-Law Annette and his nieces and nephew, and along with the entire Bruce family. I Express,
my deepest and heartfelt condolences and prayers. Please know that Terrance has gained his heavenly wings. Rest in heaven, my sweet cousin I will always love and remember you.🙏🏽🥲❤️💜
Mr. Terrence Bruce—educator, saxophonist, mentor, and friend—was a profound influence in my life.
In 1976, he placed the first saxophone in my hands. From that moment on, he became a guiding force in my development as a musician and as a man. His mentorship helped shape the path I continue to walk today.
Sadly, he passed away on April 16, 2026. I do not know all the details, but the loss is deeply felt.
There are only a few individuals who have truly shaped who I am, and Mr. Terrence Bruce is certainly among them.
Terrence, I love you and miss you.
Rest in peace, Great King.
Blessings Tjari Abdullah Shaheed – Jimmie Highsmith Jr.
Terrance and I went to Charlotte and Madison high school together. We were supposed to go to Alfred University together. We played football and ran track also. So I have known him for a number of years. My true condolences to his family and love ones.
Big T. He had a big heart and a big presence everywhere he went. He played with great passion and energy. We were friends since the 80s. As musicians, we played together over several decades in Sheer Energy Big Band, Cabo Frio when I subbed on some tours, and when he left and formed his own Quartet with myself, Steve Curry & Bob Stata for many years.
R.I.H. uncle Terry he thought my dad and Uncle rick.how to play saxophone and they was in a band together Richard Belle and Anthony Belle !!
Rest in peace Terrence… Kate and family so sorry for your loss.
To the Bruce Family- my deepest condolences. All my memories of Terrence fill my heart with music and joy. All those years of touring with Cabo Frio I will hold dear. Joe Santora great appreciated Terrence’s talent and was grateful for his friendship, as I was. He certainly leaves a wonderful legacy for many years to come.
Deepest condolences to the entire Bruce family. We hope the memories continue to stay vivid and present for you all. Praying for the weeks, months and years to come as his presence will continue to be missed. Thinking of you all during this time🩷🙏🏼
Terrence, you can “hold that note” now. God bless you.
Terrence…a friend to Alvin and myself since WAY back in the day ( 70’s). I pray you and Alvin meet up, brother musicians and lovers of sports… He reached the presence of Jesus just a little before you.
Deepest love and condolences to the family from the Parris family.
Terrence was a spepcial individual. Although, we did not see each other much, each time we spoke it was very spepcial. Terrence, thank you for all you did and contributed. You touched the hearts and soul of all of us.
I knew Terrance Bruce for more than 50 years, as a student,colleague,and friend. He was an excellent saxophonist,but in many ways, a better person! Loved you, my friend!❤️ RIP
Terrance is and will always be a very good friend of mine and someone I’ll always think of.
When I met him for the first time, it was like we had already been friends for a while.
He was someone I could talk with about life, how the world was changing, and how it used to be. I truly enjoyed seeing from his perspective because he was always thoughtful, kind, and spoke with patience. Although I was decades younger, he always made me feel accepted.
Terrance had a very strong passion for music, which I truly enjoyed. I also finally truly understood how language was another language through his perspective.
It was an honor to spend all the moments we had, and I always left wishing I had more time to just hear more of his thoughts on all the things we spoke of. It’s never enough time with people like Terrance.
I’ll always remember my friend Terrance.
I hope you get all the time to playing with your soul in Heaven, brother Terrance, my friend. You will always be remembered by me my friend and I’ll smile.
Terrance Bruce,”I knew him from our hood, in the immediate facenity of Frost ave. Bartlett st.Orlean St.,Renewals st.by 2 school as youngster’s coming up.in high school i was the track & field section v champion in the high hurdles & triple jump champion, in 1972 Terrance Bruce was section v Discus & shot put champion with Bill Sophine that year! I’ve Seen him play multiple instruments at Jinks & Jones it was incredible,” I’ve only seen a & heard of 2 people that can play 3 saxaphones at one time.Roland Curt and Terrance Bruce! I’ve seen & heard Terrance do at Jinks & Jones Genesee St. In Rochester, New York.
My condolences to Mr. Bruce and family have a safe travel my friend unto God!?
I had the honor and privilege of working alongside Terrance at Franklin High School. He was the Music/Band Teacher while I served as Accompanist/Gospel Choir Director.
With Terrance’s Musical Connections & Influence, our Choir was granted .the opportunity to Sing at various venues and functions.
I fondly remember our Performance at the State Capitol in Albany to perform for an organization called ROCHESTER FIGHTS BACK where we performed our own ORIGINAL SONG in Celebration of the Occasion. This moment will forever be etched in my mind and also in the mind of each Student who shared in this performance.
After I moved on from Franklin and became a Certified Music Teacher, Terrance & I remained friends throughout the years. I’ve always appreciated the support and encouragement I received from him to pursue getting my NEW YORK STATE TEACHER’s CERTIFICATION.
When I finally retired in 2017, Terrance came to my Very Last School Concert and performed with my Choir as we Sang “Oh Happy Day”. Instead of having a Vocal Lead Soloist, Terrance performed the SOLO PART on his Saxophone and what a Performance it was!!!
I’ve since relocated to Florida and felt led in my heart to call and chat with Terrance a few months ago. We had a great conversation talking about Music and reminiscing on our time together at Franklin High School. Little did I know that would be our last conversation.
Terrance, your Music will forever live on!
Rest in Peace my Dear Friend!!!
Well done my faith discreet servant!?
I Will like to re integrate God said? Well done my faithful discreet servant!?
I remember listening to Cabro Frio at Charlotte beach it was a beautiful night and the band was really playing well! Terrace “Hold the note” was really living up to that moniker! Rest in peace! Thank you for all the years of your fantastic music.
Our deepest love to your family!! Our hearts are with you……. We adore your Dad!!!
The Callanans appreciate all of the great memories we share with your family through Little League, Football, and Basketball!!! And the music at the Banquets!! Once a Raider, Always a Raider!!
Our love goes out to the whole family .. especially you Kate who was forever by his side … 💗💕I can only see him playing freely for the angels … they’ve never had it so good up there with his wonderful Sax . I remember the first time I saw Cabo Frio and I was a fan.. I never even knew you then Kate ! You both had so much courage and resilience in the midst of everything .. what a life .. nice Job Terrance you good and faithful soul .. much love Craig Vickijo and our families
I had the privilege of spending a morning with Terrence a few months ago and driving him to appointments in his specially equipped van. I had enjoyed his music over the years, and we even booked him at the Rochester MusicFest for many years. That morning I learned a lot more about him and his family. He spoke with great feelings about the care he had received since his paralysis. I always knew him as a person who exuded joy and passion, but that day I saw a person full of gratitude and grace, for all the love he was being showered with. I am so grateful for the opportunity to spend that time with him. I did not realize that it would be the last time. Terrence Bruce is a proud son of Rochester, who spent his life inspiring others with his gifts of making sweet music and inspiring his students to do the same. He was the consummate performer and teacher. May his soul rest in perfect peace.
My condolences to the family I have known Terrence all my life he was one of my brothers best Freinds he showed me how to play sax he also was one of my football coaches at Madison he treated my like his little bro lol will be missed
Terry. My. Brother-in-law. Always.was A. Beautiful Beautiful…Soul.. He. Was. Loved. By. His. Family. And. He. Was. Was. Loved by. So. Many. People.. .. He. Was. The. Greatest. Saxophone. player. I. Knew. In. This. Lifetime. He. Will. Be. Missed. And. Was. Loved. By .many. .. love. You. Terry
I remember Terrance as a 7th grader at West junoir/senior high when they played in front the school for assemblies.We didn’t know at time we were witnessing greatness. What a pleasure it was to know him.
My condolences to the Bruce family. Your Detroit area family is praying with you and for you. Evelyn was my first cousin. Over the years, I had the opportunity to meet Terry and remember what a kind, caring and talented man he was. He LOVED his family. I spoke with him after he needed a wheelchair, but he remained positive and still focused on what he could do, not on what he could not do. Sharon and I were sad that we were unable to connect with you all when we visited Niagara falls. I pray that you treasure the special memories your family spent a lifetime making.
If ever there was someone special, it was Terrance Bruce. We met in 1984 at the Syracuse Jazz Festival. By some Devine intervention, he became a member of Dave Hanlon”s band, Cookbook. The band performed many gigs throughout the years and Terrance was always the man. I’ll always be grateful for the time and stages we shared. To his Family, we send our condolence. He will never be forgotten. 🎶☮️💜
Mr. Bruce was my football coach, gentle mentor and an example, to many, of what a meaningful life can be.
Terrance Bruce was an athlete for the ages, an artist with a loving heart, a gentleman educator, a family man and loved by those who knew him.
I was always lucky when it came to football. I had great coaches; my uncle Jim first and Mr. Bruce foremost. Mr Bruce in life, as on the field of sport, was the gamechanger.
I was the waterboy on the varsity and eager to begin my football journey. My JV Coach was Mr. Bruce. He taught, encouraged and led by example. He didn’t really yell; that was different.
Mr Bruce brought me to the downtown YMCA and taught me how to lift weights. Teaching that connecting the effort to the mind amplifies the outcomes and goal. I started to believe, that maybe, I could.
Mr. Bruce gave myself and a teammate an opportunity to be in a TV commercial with Buffalo Bills QB Joe Ferguson. After, Mr. Ferguson let me join him in a workout at the UR. This was the absolute thrill of a young football life; although my times with Mr. Bruce were the most impactful. None of that would’ve have happened without Coach Bruce; I’d probably still be a Cleveland Browns fan.
As the high school campaign ended my attention turned to college. While considering football offers and options my mom mentioned Alfred U.; she knew they were 10-0, I knew it was where Mr Bruce excelled.
I made a visit, meet with All American and former Buffalo Bill Sam Sanders, the Head Coach. I was all in on Alfred. I enrolled fall 1982. Seasons later on a beautiful fall day at practice I spotted a lone figure standing at the front rail. I made a play to that side of the field and saw that beautiful smile and heard the encouragement. I ran up to Coach Bruce, quickly admitting my greed for still wanting all the tackles, as we laughed.
That’s what I’ll remember most about my times with Mr Bruce; working hard, improving, believing in each other and laughing along the way. I went on to Coach youth football; the football luck was still with me and so was Mr Bruce’s way, to the benefit of my young players.
To Mr Bruce’s wife, sons, family and friends please accept my heartfelt condolences and gratitudes upon your loss of this great good man.
Never was there a mightier Saxon.
We extend our deepest condolences to cousin Terrance. We are so happy to have been able to witness you play that horn. We last heard him play at our Grandma Kathy’s funeral, and even in that wheelchair, he tore the house down. What a blessing he has been to this world. We send our love and prayers to his wife, children and grandchildren.
-With Love, Tomika Morrison (Bruce) & Tiara Collier (Bruce-Glover); Angela Bruce’s daughters; Vernon Bruce’s granddaughters❤️
Fly high Terrance with all the love with you. From the moment I knew you, you always shared a huge smile with your eyes feeling it too, looked right at me when you talked, to make sure I understood you. I loved your spirit, the way you were devoted in your love for everyone who knew you, as your family. Thank you for your kindness you showed with the next generation, with my boys, as well. When I told them that you transitioned, they both had such kind responses of how you touched their lives. We will miss you and your tremendous spirit. Your huge heart. All my love to the family and friends, and everyone who you touched. <3 always, Beth
My sincere condolences to the Bruce families & friends, I just found out Terrance had passed away, I was Terrance under study, we wrestled against each other at Madison High School in practice, of course I ever could win a match against him but enjoyed what he taught me. He was a talented musician and friend. Rest well my brother. Peacock.
Terrence Bruce played at my husband Paul & my wedding w/Cabo Frio in 1989! He was amazing
He had a female singer Kim that sang with tge band & she was fantastic too! Terrance was a great man & a talented musician! I our sincerest condolences to the family. A huge loss. You live on in all our hearts