ATLANTA—Father Bruce Barnabas Charles Schultz, OP, died Aug. 5. He was 79 years old and a Dominican priest for 36 years. 

Father Bruce B. Schultz, OP, died Aug. 5. Photo by Michael Alexander

Father Schultz was born on Feb. 10, 1945, in South Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He entered the Dominican Novitiate in Columbia, South Carolina, in 1982. In 1983 he made his simple profession at St. Martin de Porres Catholic Church in Columbia. He solemnly professed his vows at St. Anthony of Padua Church, New Orleans, in 1986. 

Father Schultz’s diaconate ordination took place at Oakland Cathedral in Oakland, California, in 1988. He was ordained to the priesthood on Nov. 3, 1988, at Our Lady of Lourdes Church in Atlanta. 

A life-long learner, Father Schultz’s intellectual curiosity and pursuit of knowledge was extensive. He earned a master’s degree in theology from the Institute for Black Catholic Studies at Xavier University of Louisiana. His theological studies also included degrees from the Dominican School of Philosophy and Theology in Berkeley, California.  

Prior to that, he pursued degrees in American Studies at New York University and American Intellectual History at Rutgers in New Brunswick, New Jersey (1967-68). His undergraduate years were spent at the University of Wisconsin, Madison, where he obtained a degree in journalism. 

Before his ministry, Father Schultz worked as a journalist, writing for Newsweek, the Associated Press, other publications and the Southern Regional Education Board (SREB). In his quest for a deeper purpose, he embarked on a search for God and joined the church in 1980, marking the beginning of his new life and vocation. 

Father Schultz has left an indelible mark on the lives of those he encountered and served. His journey of faith, justice and kindness spanned decades, touching countless hearts along the way. 

Father Schultz’s faith, family, friends and preaching were the roots of his joy. He was an avid reader and lover of music, particularly the music of Luther Vandross. He would often spend time completing The New York Times crossword puzzles with mechanical pencils. Father Schultz often would break out in song or send links to an artist he loved. He encouraged all to remain steadfast in prayer with an open heart.  

His pastoral work was diverse and impactful and included ministering as a parochial vicar at Our Lady of Lourdes in Atlanta, as a campus minister at North Carolina Central University in Durham, North Carolina; as prior at St. Martin de Porres Priory in Raleigh, North Carolina; and as pastor at Holy Redeemer Catholic Church in San Antonio, Texas. 

Father Schultz contributed significantly to the Southern Dominican Province of St. Martin de Porres, serving as a promoter for community life and permanent formation and editing the Sacred Rock journal at Xavier University of Louisiana. His ministry extended to St. Martin de Porres Church in Columbia, South Carolina; itinerant preaching in Rosedale, Mississippi, and prison ministry coordination with Delta Dominican Ministries. 

He is preceded in death by his parents, Lola Wright and Fred L. Schultz; and his brother, Kay Fred Schultz. He is survived by his nephew Eric (Marlene) Schultz and their children, Ariel, David and Abigail; his sister-in-law, Eleanor Schultz, many cousins, his Dominican family and beloved close friends. 

Father Schultz’s viewing will take place on Friday, Aug. 16, from 3 to 8 p.m., with a prayer service at 7 p.m. A funeral will be held on Saturday, Aug. 17, at 10 a.m., followed by a repast. Both services are at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, 25 Boulevard NE, Atlanta. The burial will be scheduled later at the Dominican Cemetery in Rosaryville, Louisiana.