W. Leigh Bridges

1936 - 2017

W. Leigh Bridges, 80

Grafton, MA - W. Leigh Bridges, 80, passed away quietly in Arizona, in his home away from home, on January 30, 2017. He was a lifelong resident of Grafton. He leaves behind his wife of 60 years, Sonja (Anderson) Bridges, his son and daughter in law, Scott and Janet Bridges, of Rowley, MA, and daughter and son in law, Kristen and Adam Sidman, of Grafton, MA. He also leaves his four grandchildren who he adored, Andrew and Blake Bridges, and Kelsey and Shayne Sidman.

Leigh and Sonja started their journey together when they met at Bates College, and later graduated from the University of Massachusetts. Leigh went on to gain his Master's Degree in Marine Biology from Southern Illinois State University. He worked for the majority of his career for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, in the Department of Marine Fisheries as one of the Assistant Directors.

After retirement, he and his wife enjoyed traveling around the United States, before settling in Arizona as their permanent winter home. This place held special meaning for him as he had an extensive network of friends who shared in his hobbies which included wood carving, silver work, poker, pickle ball and shuffle board, as well as other social activities. Leigh easily made friends wherever he went. Some considered him soft spoken, but he offered his friendship and a hand to anyone that needed it. His passion for the outdoors was seen not just in his career. Leigh was an avid fisherman, a hobby he shared with his children, grandchildren and close friends.

Please join Leigh's family and friends as they remember and celebrate his life at a memorial service Tuesday at 10:00 a.m., February 7, 2017, at St. Andrew's Episcopal Church, 53 North Main St., North Grafton, MA.