Willie "Bruce" Clay Minton, Jr.

Saltville, VA

Willie "Bruce" Clay Minton, Jr. went home to be with the Lord on January 9, 2026. He was born and raised in Saltville Virginia on July 1, 1952 to the late Willie Minton and Daphne Taylor Minton. He attended R.B. Worthy Highschool and later furthered his education at Virginia Highlands. Willie proudly served his country in the United States Airforce and was honorably discharged, reflecting his dedication, discipline, and sense of duty. After his military service, Willie worked for Pepsi Co., where he built a long and dependable career before retiring. He was hardworking, reliable, and well respected by those who knew him. Music was one of Willies greatest gifts. He was a talented musician and singer, and people truly loved hearing him play. His music brought joy and connection wherever it was shared. Willie also loved sports, especially golfing with family and creating memories along the way. Family meant everything to Willie. He was deeply loved by his wife Margaret. He was a proud and loving father, grandfather-great-grandfather, and brother.

Though he will be deeply missed, his love for his family, his music, his wisdom, humor and his legacy will live on in all of the hearts who knew and loved him.

In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by his uncle, Ronnie Taylor; and sister, Connie Constance Wilkinson.

Left to cherish his memory is his wife of 45 years, Margaret Minton; his daughter, Holly Minton; his brother, David "Buddy" Minton; sisters, Ginger Mortimer and husband Albert, Evelyn Minton, Rose Minton, and Rhonda Minton; grandchildren, Samantha Havens and fiancé Channing, and Kaleb Havens; great-grandchildren, Bentley Tanner, and Corbin "Kash" Russell"; and several nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held on Tuesday January 13, 2026 at Elizabeth Cemetery with Pastor Billy Gwinn officiating. There will be military rites rendered by the United States Air Force Honor Guard and the V.F.W. Post #4667. The family will be receiving friends at Henderson Funeral Home from 12:30 until 1:30 prior to the procession to the cemetery.

Those serving as pallbearers will be Kaleb Havens, Lance Minton, Channing Russell, Daniel Casey, and Al Mortimer.

Online condolences may be expressed at drhendersonfuneralhome.com. The D.R. Henderson Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Willie "Bruce" Clay Minton, Jr.