It is with profound sorrow that I share the news that Bruce Neilson, a faithful SALT advocate for justice for many years, has passed away. It is difficult to imagine a time when Bruce was not working to advance the public good so that all in his community could flourished. Starting in the mid-1980s, Bruce served as a member of the SALT Leadership Group. He consistently supported SALT by spreading the word about our legislative proposals and providing wise guidance when SALT developed legislative priorities and advocacy strategies.

I have often introduced Bruce as the top advocate in our organization; he was that and so much more.  Without his strategic guidance in the start-up days of SALT there would not have been a SALT today.  Everywhere we went, legislators and legislative staffs knew him and would come over to speak with us. Bruce was wise, remarkably energetic, and devoted to working for justice, especially for the most vulnerable.

For me, over the years, Bruce was a touchstone and mentor, and he was the same to many others that crossed his path. He was a personal friend with a big heart, always encouraging  and generous. I will miss him, as will many other SALT advocates that worked with him in advancing our legislative priorities. His life was a blessing to all that knew him: his beloved wife Kathy, friends, all those helped by his goodness, Virginia legislators, and all SALT advocates.  The good he did will live on, and Virginia is a better place because of him.

Our hearts go out to the whole Neilson family during this time of sorrow.  

Bruce's life will be celebrated at a funeral Mass on Wednesday, January 4, 2023, at 10:30 am at St. Mary of Sorrow's Catholic Church, 10500 Zion Dr, Fairfax, VA 22032. The burial service will be private.

Following the mass, a reception will be held from 12:30 - 2:30 pm at the Fairfax County Police Association Hall, 5625 Revercomb Ct, Fairfax, VA 22030. Food and beverage will be provided at the reception, along with entertainment by a New Orleans Second Line Jazz Band.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the American Cancer Society.