Aberdeen Boys’ Brigade stalwart Sherry Bruce has been praised as a “loyal friend” who devoted herself to generations of youngsters.
The 58-year-old was found seriously injured at a property on Glenbervie Road on Sunday and was pronounced dead at the scene.
Mrs Bruce had been involved with the 20th Aberdeen Boys’ Brigade, based in Torry, for more than 15 years. She first joined as a helper before completing training to become a company officer.
In 2013, she took on the role of officer in charge for the 20th Company’s Anchor section, which is made up of the youngest members.
Every Friday evening, she would lead the group of five to eight-year-olds in a series of games and activities to help them learn skills and gain badges.
A committed leader
The Aberdeen and District Battalion has said she will be “sorely missed” by all those involved in the city companies, but especially by “her” Anchor boys.
Secretary Jenny Sclater said: “Everyone at Aberdeen and District Battalion was extremely sad to hear about the tragic incident on Sunday which resulted in the passing of one of our leaders, Sherry Bruce.
“Sherry was officer in charge of the Anchor section at 20th Aberdeen Company, which meets weekly at Torry United Free Church.
“She always ensured that ‘her’ Anchor boys were given the opportunity to take part in any battalion events and she was always one of the first leaders to offer to help at any event.”
‘They have lost a loyal friend’
The secretary shared that a number of Boys’ Brigade leaders have been in touch to share their condolences over the past few days.
Ian Duff, captain of the 20th Aberdeen Company, added that everyone was “devastated to hear the tragic news”.
He said: “The youngest members of the company in the Anchor section will be very sad to have lost her. They have lost a loyal friend.
“Since advising all battalion leaders of the news yesterday, several have been in touch all saying the same thing – Sherry was a lovely, lovely lady, always willing to help and always enthusiastic about everything she did for the Boys’ Brigade.”
“She will be sorely missed.”
‘She adored everyone’
Earlier this week, Mrs Bruce’s family issued a statement describing her as a “kind and caring” mum and “wonderful” grandmother.
They said she had a “soft heart” and adored everyone she met.
A 26-year-old man was also found injured at the property and was taken to Aberdeen Royal Infirmary where he was said to be in a stable condition.
Police confirmed a 24-year-old man has been charged in connection with the incident. He appeared in court on Tuesday.