Roper Funeral Home and Crematory 206 Holly St Jasper, GA 30143 (706) 253-7500 (706) 253-0040 www.roperfuneralhome.com Bruce Lyle Toups, born July 15, 1941, passed into his next life on March 18, 2026 at his home in Big Canoe in Jasper Ga after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. He was born in New Orleans, graduated from LSU with a BS in Electrical Engineering and worked for Western Electric (predecessor to AT&T). He later graduated San Jose State with an MBA, followed by a 56-year career in commercial and residential real estate. Bruce was a creative deal maker and turnaround specialist. He was successively Broker, COO, CFO and President of a private investment firm based in Atlanta where he led the firm through various market declines and surges with a breath of tactical, strategic and operational skills. He was later Qualifying Broker for a North Georgia brokerage firm. He shared his broad knowledge of real estate teaching students at two universities. At age 15, Bruce happened into a Judo school in NOLA and the sport became a life passion. His legacy is defined by competitive excellence, visionary leadership and a lifelong commitment to the growth and success of American Judo. He achieved the 7th Degree Black Belt As competitor Bruce claimed multiple Grand Champion titles. As instructor he was founder and co-founder of multiple Judo schools. He was a Master Rank Examiner and Certified Judo Instructor. As one of several International Coaches, there were unprecedented successes on the mat. Bruce was especially proud when the national anthem was played for the first time for American Judo's first World Champion. Deeply involved in governance, Bruce held positions on the USJA Board of Directors, the Budget and Audit Committee, was Director of Development, worked to protect the Olympic Trust Fund and was instrumental in proper preparations for the Judo venue for the 1996 Olympic Games. After his 5-decade commitment to his real estate career, where he also developed life-long friendships, Bruce settled in Big Canoe with Michelle, his wife of 36 years. He enjoyed entertaining, good food and fine wine. He excelled at bridge among newfound neighbors who have become cherished friends. He contributed his problem solving skills to some Big Canoe committees and oversaw the brokerage firm. Bruce was known for his big laugh, life wisdom, and desire to help and guide family and friends. He was a devoted husband, caring cousin, uncle and brother-in-law. He was generous in all ways with his and Michelle's family. Bruce was a loyal friend whose stories and spirit touched all who knew him. Bruce was predeceased by his parents OJ and Rose Toups. He is survived by four cousins and their spouses, four second cousins and six third cousins in TX, LA and FL. In lieu of flowers, donations in Bruce's honor can be made to Pancreatic Cancer Network, Purple Project or the National Pancreatic Cancer Foundation. Arrangements are entrusted to the Staff of Roper Funeral Home and Crematory.