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Jimmy Wayne Bruza was born on July 16, 1937, to Jim and Thelma Bruza in Shawnee, Okla. He passed away peacefully in his home with family by his side on Saturday, November 23, 2024, in Oklahoma City, Okla., at the age of 87.
A Life Well-Lived Jim's journey began on a small farm near Aydelotte, Okla., where he rode his horse, Trixie, to a two-room schoolhouse. After attending middle and high school in Meeker, Okla., Jim pursued higher education in architecture at Oklahoma State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Architecture degree. He financed his college education by working summers on oil pipelines throughout the western U.S.
On November 6, 1959, Jim married his high school sweetheart, Guqueta Austin, beginning a beautiful 54-year partnership. Together they raised five children - Jeff, Jim, John, Jackie, and Jennifer - and shared a life rooted in faith, family, and service. Jim was an active member and deacon of Trinity Baptist Church, where he helped establish a satellite ministry that became Spring Creek Baptist Church. Later, he made Heritage Baptist Church his home, before recently returning to Spring Creek. His unwavering faith guided his life and he passionately reflected the love of Christ in all he did.
A Legacy in Architecture Over a career spanning more than four decades at Frankfurt-Short-Bruza (FSB), where he became a principal of the firm in 1978, Jim left an indelible mark on Oklahoma City. As the "B" in FSB, he contributed to many landmark projects, from the Kerr-McGee Tower to the transformative Metropolitan Area Projects (MAPS I) program, working closely with city leaders to shape the community. The MAPS I initiative was instrumental in Oklahoma City's development, encompassing nine key civic projects that revitalized the city, including Bricktown Ballpark, Bricktown Canal, Oklahoma River Development, Civic Center Music Hall, Downtown Metropolitan Area Library, significant upgrades to the State Fairgrounds, a new sports arena - now home to NBA's Oklahoma City Thunder - renovations to Cox Convention Center, and the establishment of a trolley transit system. His vision and leadership also brought award-winning designs to life, including projects for Hertz Corporation, Oklahoma State University, Conoco's headquarters in Ponca City, and Oklahoma State Capitol Dome. A dedicated advocate for architecture and mentorship, Jim served as president of Central Oklahoma Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and on AIA Oklahoma Board of Directors. He influenced architectural policy at the state level and mentored countless students at Oklahoma State University, instilling in them the creative and civic potential of their profession. His contributions were recognized with numerous awards, including the prestigious William Wayne Caudill Award, celebrating his profound impact on Oklahoma's built environment and architectural community.
Family and Faith Jim is survived by his five children: Jeff Bruza, Jim Bruza, John Bruza, Jackie Buckley, and Jennifer Harper; and his beloved grandchildren: Josh Bruza, Luke and Brett Harper, and Colin and Gavin Buckley.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Jim and Thelma Bruza; his sisters, Joye Henderson, Betty Crownover, and Sue Guillory; his cherished wife of 54 years and the love of his life, Guqueta Bruza, who passed away after a courageous battle with cancer; and his second wife, Carolyn Sue Segler-Hanes Bruza, with whom he found companionship and solace later in life.
Celebrating a Life of Purpose Jim's life was a testament to the power of faith, love, and service. From his groundbreaking work in architecture to his quiet guidance as a mentor, he left an enduring legacy that will continue to inspire generations. His memory will live on in the buildings he designed, the communities he enriched, and the hearts of those who knew him.
A service celebrating Jim's life will be held at Hahn-Cook/Street & Draper Funeral Home on Friday, December 6, 2024, at 10 a.m. Friends and family are invited to a viewing on Thursday, December 5 from 4 to 8 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to Samaritan's Purse or Oklahoma Baptist Homes for Children.
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