Terry Bridgmon

1978 - 2025

Terry Bridgmon
Born: July 16, 1978
Died: December 30, 2025 in Cloverdale, IN
Terry Charles Bridgmon Jr., 47, passed away on December 30, 2025, in Cloverdale, Indiana, from Huntington's Disease. Born prematurely on July 16, 1978, in Birmingham, Alabama, Terry faced challenges from the very beginning of his life. Blind since birth, he refused to let his circumstances define him and instead embraced life with determination and resilience.
Terry's philosophy was simple yet profound: "I am not Handicapped; I am Challenged. I can do anything I want to - It will take me longer and I will have to try harder." This mindset guided him throughout his life as he pursued his education and planned personal goals. He earned an Associate's Degree before going on to achieve a Bachelor's Degree in General Studies from Northern Illinois University in 2003. While he was unable to secure traditional employment, Terry displayed remarkable independence. Using his cane and extraordinary memory, he navigated the world with confidence, traveling by foot or bus wherever he needed to go.
A devoted disciple of Jesus Christ, Terry found great joy and strength in his faith. He spent countless hours listening to the Bible on CD and cherished his favorite verses, including Isaiah 40:31: "but they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint," and John 3:16: "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life." His faith also brought him meaningful connections through the Baptist Campus Ministry in DeKalb, where he formed lasting friendships. Among these was a special bond with Linda Layhew and her family, who held a significant place in his heart.
Family was at the center of Terry's life. He treasured holiday dinners hosted by his Aunt Sharon and Uncle Jim Colvin and delighted in spending time with loved ones. He shared a close relationship with his brother Gary Bridgmon, enjoying video games and companionship together. His mother, Carolyn McKenna, was not only his mentor but also his greatest advocate, ensuring that Terry was treated with equality and respect.
In 2020, Terry was diagnosed with Huntington's Disease. He received wonderful support from Lutheran Social Services Inc. in Rochelle, many prayers from his Stephen Ministers and friends at Westminster Presbyterian Church in DeKalb, and in his final two years, specialized and loving care from the compassionate staff of Aperion Care Summerfield nursing home in Cloverdale, Indiana.
Terry is survived by his stepfather Terrance McKenna; his aunts and uncle Sharon (Jim) Colvin, Bernice Jones, Sherri (late Jim) Bell; and many cousins who will remember him fondly. He was preceded in death by his parents Carolyn McKenna and Terry Bridgmon Sr.; his brother Gary Bryan Bridgmon; his cousin Jamie Colvin Choate; his aunt Patricia Lynge; and his uncle Rodney Jones Jr.
Terry's life was a testament to perseverance, faith, and love for those around him. Despite the obstacles he faced, he lived fully and left an indelible mark on everyone who knew him. A Memorial Service will be held on March 7, 2026, at 1:00 PM at All Peoples Fellowship, 130 Shawnee Dr., Carol Stream, Illinois. There will be light refreshments before the service. Interment will follow at 2:00 pm at Glen Oak Cemetery in West Chicago, Illinois.