Dr. Christi Carter Bruening, 60, of Mt. Sterling, passed away peacefully, Friday, March 13, 2026, at her home, surrounded by the love of her family.
Born Sept. 28, 1965, she was the daughter of the late Alan and Sue Carter of Hazen, Ark. From an early age, her leadership, determination, and kindness were evident to those around her. She served as class president of her senior class at Hazen High School, was named Prairie County Junior Miss and was an exceptional high school basketball player. She graduated from the University of Arkansas, earned her master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from Eastern Kentucky University, and completed her Ph.D. at the University of Southern Mississippi. She went on to serve as a professor of psychology at Morehead State University and worked as a private practitioner specializing in mental disability determinations. She had a creative spirit and a joyful heart. She loved traveling with her sisters and family, decorating for every season, quilting, and bringing smiles to others by creating balloon sculptures for charitable events. Above all, she treasured being a mother and cherished the simple moments of family life. Her daily prayer time reflected a deep and abiding faith that guided her life. Her generous heart and compassion for others extended far beyond her home. She participated in mission trips to Uganda and founded “Crafts for a Cause,” a project that empowered Ugandan women while supporting HIV awareness and education. She had a special gift for encouraging others and quietly serving wherever she saw a need. Those who knew her will remember her sense of humor, strong faith, and the love she shared so freely with family and friends.
Survivors include her loving husband, Bill Bruening; daughters, Caroline Bruening and Natalie Bruening; sisters, Dr. Niki Carter and Becky (Harry) Wakefield; and brother, Alan (Debra) Carter.
In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her beloved sister, Dr. Ginny (Tommy) Lewis.
Memorial service will be held at 12 noon, Saturday, March 21 at First Church of God Mt. Sterling, 1051 Camargo Rd. Visitation will be 10 a.m.-noon, Saturday.
In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to First Church of God Mt. Sterling – Missions, 1051 Camargo Rd., Mt. Sterling, Ky., 40353.
Guestbook available at www.coffmanfuneral.com.
Arrangements under the direct care of Coffman Funeral Home and Crematory.
