Bruce Allen McArdle

The Honorable, Bruce Allen McArdle, 87, of Johnson City, passed away surrounded by his wife, children, grandchildren, great-grandchild and friends on July 13, 2024.

Bruce was born October 12, 1936 to John and Bernadette McArdle in Ticonderoga, NY. Growing up in the small town of Indian Lake, he excelled in school and sports, being named captain of his high school basketball team, and baseball team. Bruce attended Ithaca College where he received a degree in History and Mathematics. After college, Bruce studied law at Stetson University College of Law. On the day he graduated from Law School, Bruce received his draft notice for the United States Army. While waiting on his assignment with the Army, he taught history in New York. He spent three (3) years serving our country in Korea and Japan. Upon his return to the United States, Bruce attended New York University where he became proficient in tax law. Thereafter, he obtained his first legal job as an IRS attorney in New Orleans, Louisiana. After ten years, he was appointed by President Richard Nixon as an Administrative Law Judge for the Bureau of Hearing and Appeals with the Social Security Administration and held that position in Kingsport, Tennessee for twenty-five (25) years. Upon retirement, he continued to practice Social Security law for several years in the Tri-Cities area. 

Bruce met the love of his life, Freddie McDougald, in New Orleans in 1965. Bruce often bragged that he noticed Freddie on his first day of work at the IRS, where she was working as a secretary, but it took him some time to finally work up the courage to ask her on a formal date. They married in February of 1967. Bruce and Freddie have one daughter, Erin McArdle, and twin sons, Jeffrey and Clifford McArdle. One of the most fulfilling parts of his life was being a grandfather to his seven (7) grandchildren and one (1) great-grandchild. Fondly known as "Poppy" by all, he cherished every opportunity to spend time with them, share stories and attend sporting events and other activities. He took great pride in their many accomplishments and couldn’t help but smile whenever they were around. 

Bruce was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Burgess McArdle. He is survived by his wife Freddie, his children; Erin, Jeffrey and Clifford McArdle (Camy), his seven (7) grandchildren, Alex Hargroves (Wyatt), Finn Coughlin, DeVonte Mitchell (Kaylee), Lauren McArdle, Dominic Coughlin, Colleen Coughlin, Corinne McArdle and his great-granddaughter, Lucy. 

Bruce loved to discuss politics and history, watch all types of sports, and travel the world. He was a lifelong Yankees, Notre Dame football and Duke basketball fan.

The family will receive friends from 12 PM until 1 PM on Wednesday, July 17, 2024, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church. Mass will follow at 1 PM with Father Collins officiating. A reception will be held immediately after mass. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 2211 E. Lakeview Dr., Johnson City, TN 37601.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family via www.morrisbaker.com. Morris-Baker Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 2001 E. Oakland Ave., Johnson City, is serving the family. (423)282-1521