SMSgt. David Stanley Bridges, USAF (Ret.)

SMSgt. David Stanley Bridges, USAF (Ret.), 91, entered into rest on Wednesday, January 8, 2025. 

David was born on March 26, 1933, in Shelby, North Carolina to the late Durham and Mary Hardin Bridges. He was raised in Shelby and graduated from Shelby High School after playing baseball throughout his high school career as the team pitcher. Following graduation, he enlisted in the United States Air Force in communications. During his service, he also operated a radio show for the Air Force at Goose Bay, Canadian Air Force Base. He honorably served 26 years, ultimately retiring as a Senior Master Sergeant. Following his military service, he began working in civil service on Robins Air Force Base as the supervisor in the 566th EMXS Gyro Shop, where he eventually retired. 

David never met a stranger. His love for people carried him through friendships throughout his life, particularly when walking through his neighborhood with his late wife, MaryAnn. He was well known and loved not only by his neighbors, but also the local dogs for whom he always carried treats in his pockets. His favorite dog was of course his own, River. David’s family was of the upmost importance to him, especially his grandchildren, and the memories they could make together. In his free time, David enjoyed golfing and was known for both his putting and his long drive, making him the local Air Force Base champion for several years running. His warm countenance will be deeply missed by all those who had the pleasure of knowing him. 

In addition to his parents, David was preceded in death by his wife, MaryAnn Bridges, and siblings, William Bridges, Margie Kitchen, Thomas Bridges, and Ralph Bridges. 

His memory will forever be treasured by his children, Karen Fugate (Robert) of Ocoee, Florida, Phillip Bridges (Pat) of Warner Robins, Georgia, Debbie Lewis (Richard) of Perry, Georgia, and Sheryl Collins (Michael) of Warner Robins, Georgia; grandchildren, Troy Fugate (Katie), Stephen Bridges (Katie), LeeAnn Martinez (Jon), Jeffrey Bridges, Corey Collins (Shelonda), Courtney Frits (Adam) and Marcus Farrow, along with 10 great-grandchildren and many other loving family members and friends. 

A memorial gathering will be Tuesday, January 14, 2025, from 2:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. at McCullough Funeral Home. A memorial service will immediately follow at 3:00 p.m. in the chapel of McCullough Funeral Home.  

The family will accept flowers or donations may be given in memory of David Bridges to Happy Hour Service Center at 202 North Davis Drive, Warner Robins, GA 31088. 

Go to www.mcculloughfh.com to sign the Online Registry for the family. McCullough Funeral Home and Crematory has the privilege of being entrusted with these arrangements.