Reverend John Edward Bruni, age 72, returned to our Lord on Feb. 8,2023. Born in Philadelphia, he was raised in Pennsauken, NJ, after his father joined the Air Force reserves. Father Bruni studied at Mount Saint Mary's in Emmitsburg, MD, before being ordained by Bishop George H. Guilfoyle on May 22, 1976 in Saint Cecilia Church, Pennsauken, NJ. Father Bruni's 43 years of active ministry included both parish ministry and education. His first assignment was at Atlantic City's Our Lady Star of the Sea Parish where he served as parochial vicar from 1976-1978. In 1976 he also began teaching religion at Saint Joseph High School, Hammonton. Four years later, he joined the faculty at Holy Spirit High School, Absecon and also taught at Gloucester Catholic High School, Gloucester City (1985-1990). Father Bruni was administrator of Saint Michael, Gibbstown (2000-05). He was an avid supporter of Catholic education and was instrumental in the opening of Guardian Angels Regional School in 2001. He ministered as parochial vicar at Saint Francis of Assisi Parish, Vineland (1990-95), Saint Agnes, Blackwood (1995-2000), Saint Isadore, Vineland (2005-09), Queen of Angels, Landisville (2009-11), Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament, Newfield (2011-12), Incarnation, Mantua (2013-18) and Our Lady of Peace, Williamstown (2018-19). He retired due to health reasons in 2019. He is survived by his sisters Rose Marie Galbraith, Carolyn (David) Haehn, Janice Bruni, Linda Sauer, brother Edward Bruni, nephew Frank (Sarah) Galbraith , Jenny Haehn, Cody Sauer, Casi Sauer, and God children Alex Sauer and Lori Stratton. Reception of the body will be 5pm, Monday February 20, 2023 at Incarnation Parish, 240 Main Street, Mantua, NJ. Viewing following until 7pm and on Tuesday 9:30-10:45. Mass of Christian Burial will be Tuesday at 11am. Entombment All Saints Mausoleum, Newfield. In lieu of flowers, those desiring may make a memorial contribution in his memory to Guardian Angels Regional School, 150 S. School Street, Gibbstown, NJ 08027. Memories may be shared at www.kelleyfhpitman.com.