Bruce was born April 1, 1964 in Fort Leonardwood, Mo.  He lived in bakersfield California until his parents, Jim and Shirley Thomas, moved to McAlester.  He graduated from McAlester High School in 1982.  After graduation, Bruce attended Kiamichi Vo Tech from 1981-1982.  As a child growing up Bruce enjoyed attending church, something that he has carried throughout adult life.