John Lawrence "Rocky" Bridges

John "Rocky" Lawrence Bridges passed away peacefully in his sleep on February 6, 2026, at the

age of 90, at home in Naples, Florida, where he lived with his daughter and son-in-law-exactly

where he wanted to be. Born in Jersey City, New Jersey, Rocky was the youngest of eight

children and learned early how to stand out-with a big smile, a quick wit, and a joke always

ready.

A proud graduate of Lincoln High School's Class of 1953, Rocky was every inch the athlete,

remembered as having a "smile a yard wide-and shoulders to match." Before an injury ended

his playing days, he was an All-County defensive football star and earned letters in baseball and

swimming. His love of football never waned-throughout the 1960s, he coached Sacred Heart

CYO football, leading his teams to many National Championships and leaving a lasting mark on

the young players he mentored. He shared this passion with his family-his daughter Laura

could often be seen on the sidelines, proudly donning a cheerleading uniform to cheer on his

team.

On July 14, 1956, Rocky married Mary Claire Collins. Together they built a home full of

laughter and personality, welcoming two children, Laura and John Jr. ("Jack"). Professionally,

Rocky worked for Western Electric, part of the Bell Telephone System (AT&T), never shying

away from hard work or new challenges. While working full-time, he returned to school at night,

attending Union County College and later Rutgers University. At Union County College, he

served for a time as Acting Provost-a role he carried with pride and, no doubt, a few good

stories. A lifelong learner, he returned to school in the 1990s to earn his master's degree from

Rutgers, proving that curiosity and determination never fade.

Rocky lived fully and with enthusiasm. He fiercely supported his teams-the New York Yankees,

New York Giants, the Notre Dame Fighting Irish (football), and the Duke Blue Devils

(basketball)-and never lost the boyish excitement that first drew him to sports. He loved horse

racing, believed wholeheartedly in aliens and UFOs, and remained a man of deep faith. He

embraced modern life with equal passion; one of his greatest joys was his iPhone, which let him

watch the Yankees anywhere, from family weddings to graduations. His lifelong favorite treat

was chocolate ice cream, and his favorite pastime was making people laugh-something he did

effortlessly and often.

Rocky was preceded in death by his wife Mary and his son Jack. He is survived by his daughter

Laura and her husband Philip DeStefano; his grandchildren Christian and Michelle; daughter-inlaw

Patty; step-grandchildren Michael and Joey Snyder; step-granddaughter Anastasia

DeStefano; and extended family and many friends. If there's a ballgame on, a good joke being

told, or chocolate ice cream being served somewhere beyond this life, there's no doubt Rocky

has already found his seat.

A private service will be held in the Spring in New Jersey. In lieu of flowers or donations (the

NY Yankees don't need any money), Rocky would have insisted that you enjoy a meal or ice

cream with your own loved ones-maybe give a cheer for him, and don't forget a cheer for the

Yankees!