Jeanne "Honi" F.

Brugger

Jeanne "Honi" F. Brugger passed away on Sunday, November 8, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on August 16, 1945, in Bethlehem to the late Vincent F. and Francis S. (Miller) Brugger.

A graduate of Central Catholic High School, Honi built a remarkable life marked by dedication, strength, and generosity. She worked for Bethlehem Steel for most of her life until her retirement, serving as a rate setter and in public relations. In a field where women were too often overlooked, Honi helped break new ground. She was one of the first female workers in the Steel Plant after the war, and she also became one of the first women to head her own department. Her work stood as a reflection of her determination, her skill, and the quiet courage with which she moved through life.

Honi remained deeply connected to that history and to the people around her. She was a member of the Bethlehem Steel Archives and an avid public speaker for the organization and for women in the steel industry, sharing her experience and helping preserve an important story for future generations. She also gave generously of her time as a volunteer for Zoellner Arts Center at Lehigh University and the State Theater in Easton. Always ready to help, Honi was an advocate for many individuals who needed assistance, including helping them get to doctors appointments and offering steady support in times of need.

Away from her professional and volunteer work, Honi lived a vibrant, joyful life. She loved taking pictures and capturing memories wherever she went. She also shared fond memories of dancing disco with her sisters in her youth. A passionate music lover, she was a regular attendee at Musikfest and loved live music. She especially enjoyed listening to the timeless music of Bob Dylan and Motown. She also loved swimming at the YMCA and was a lifetime member of the Bethlehem Volunteer Firefighters Home Association.

Very generous and loving, she lived in a way that made others feel cared for and seen. Above all, her family was everything to her.

She is survived by her loving daughter, Lisa Brugger. She is also survived by her siblings, Marlene Brugger, Vincent Brugger, Jr., David Brugger and his wife Joanne, Bruce Brugger, Janice Brugger, Maki Polefka and her husband Steve, and Lois Brensinger. Honi also leaves behind many loving nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, and cousins, all of whom were part of the wide circle of family she treasured so deeply.

Honi’s life was one of service, perseverance, and love. She will be remembered for the path she helped forge, the kindness she extended so freely, and the devotion she gave to her family, friends, and community. Her memory will remain a blessing to all who knew her.

Honi’s wishes were that no services be held. Her memory will be cherished by all who knew and loved her. Services have been entrusted to the Cantelmi Long Funeral Home, Bethlehem. A memory tribute may be placed at www.cantelmifuneralhome.com.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Honi’s memory to the Steelworkers Archives, 77 Sands Blvd., #215, Bethlehem, PA 18015 or by visiting: https://steelworkersarchives.com/donate.