Bruce J. Host

Bruce J. Host, a decorated veteran, devoted public servant, and tireless advocate for his community, passed away on September 26, at the age of 85. Born in Pennsylvania and raised in Kentucky, Bruce’s life was defined by service—from his early days in the Kentucky National Guard to a distinguished 22-year career in the United States Air Force. As a Navigator, Personnel Officer, and Air Attaché, Bruce’s assignments took him across the globe. He had pivotal roles during the Pueblo Crisis and participated in troop carrier, photo-mapping and air rescue missions world-wide, including the SonTay POW raid in 1970 during the Vietnam War. He served multiple tours of duty in Southeast Asia as part of the Vietnam War during 1962, 1963, and 1970-1971. As a young officer, he was selected for high-level leadership roles beyond his rank, including as Personnel Officer responsible for the worldwide movement of 160,000 airmen of the military airlift command; Executive Officer and Aide to the Unified Commander in Chief Alaska, with responsibility for defending U.S. interests in North America; and Executive Officer in the Pentagon with direct responsibility for a $6.5 billion budget, all PCS moves, and the education and training of all USAF personnel. His remarkable career culminated with an appointment as Air Attaché, American Embassy in Romania, with responsibility to the Air Force Chief of Staff and the Director of the Defense Intelligence Agency for gathering and reporting military information. After retiring from active duty, Bruce continued his mission of service in civilian life. He was the first Executive Director of Springtime Tallahassee, revitalizing the city’s beloved festival and conceiving the popular balloon festival. As Leon County Commissioner for District Four (1992–2000), he championed infrastructure projects that transformed the region—libraries, parks, community centers, fire stations, and over $60 million in roadway improvements and expansion including widening of Thomasville road from I-10 to the Georgia state border and the Thomasville road flyover. His leadership earned him the inaugural title of “Best County Politician” by Tallahassee Magazine readers in 2000. Bruce’s interest in investing and his entrepreneurial spirit led him to found Florida’s premier retirement housing association, consult for small businesses and led to a variety of successful real estate ventures. Yet his most enduring legacy may be his advocacy for veterans. In 2011, he founded the Florida Veterans’ Hall of Fame, followed by the Florida Veterans’ Hall of Fame Society in 2019. In 2021, he was appointed Florida State Director of Selective Service and received the President’s Lifetime Achievement Award. Bruce’s commitment to community extended to countless boards and organizations—from the Killearn Homeowner’s Association, United Way and Florida State University to the Killearn Kiwanis Club, Leon County Civic Center Authority, the North Florida Community Foundation and the Leon County Research and Development Authority. He was also very dedicated to and supported the Northeast library, which bears his name. He is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years, Sandra; their two daughters Christina Host Sullivan of Tampa and Amanda Host Beck (Thomas) of Nashville, and five grandchildren: Sydney, Shelby and Zak Sullivan, Francie and Bruce Beck, all of whom will miss their Big Daddy. Bruce is predeceased by his parents, Wil and Bea Host and survived by his older brother Jim Host (Pat) of Lexington and younger brother Jay Host (Sandy) of Tampa. Bruce also enjoyed a special relationship with his sister-in-law Bunny and Bill Hanley and their children Mary Heather, William and Alex as well as his dearest friends Wendy and Ron Spencer. He also leaves behind a large extended family and cherished friends from all phases of his life including the many who enhanced his later years as a member of Wildcat Cliffs Country Club in Highlands, NC. Bruce Host lived a life of purpose, marked by honor, patriotism, dedication to his family, hard work and a real zest for adventure. He remarked every day how thankful and blessed he was to have the life he and Sandra had created together. His impact will be felt for generations, and his legacy of service will remain a guiding light for all who knew him. His was a life well lived! A public burial with military honors will be held at the National Cemetery in Tallahassee on Wednesday, November 26 at 2:00 p.m. The family requests donations be made to the Florida Veterans’ Hall of Fame Society or the Bruce J. Host Northeast Branch Library in Bruce’s honor. Rocky Bevis and Kelly Barber of Bevis Funeral Home (850-385-2193 or www.bevisfh.com) are assisting the Host family with arrangements.

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Bruce J. Host

November 14, 1939 - September 26, 2025