Don Bridges

SHELBY: Carver Don Bridges, affectionately known as “Don”, peacefully departed in the early morning hours on Saturday, March 22, 2025 to go to his final resting place. Born August 16, 1938 in Cleveland County, Don spent most of his 86 years of life among family and friends on the homestead where he was born and raised.

Don graduated from No. 3 Township High School in 1957, attended and played basketball at Barry College and Gardner Webb University, for one year at each, then attended and graduated from Appalachian State University earning a Bachelor’s degree in science, history, and driver’s education.

Don dedicated his life to educating others, opening young minds at several local high schools as a history teacher and coach. In his later years, he took his wisdom to the DMV, teaching people to drive school buses, and then went on to instructing defensive driving courses at Isothermal College. Don made an impact on many people’s lives in Cleveland County.

An ardent golfer, Don could be found perfecting his swing on the golf course with lifelong friends. He was a huge Carolina fan and loved a good western. For the last thirty-three years, Don enjoyed traveling the world with his beloved wife, Leila. Together, they traveled far and wide, as they checked off their bucket list. Don was always looking for an adventure, as was evident when at 80 years young he chose to zip line down the mountain with his daughter and grandson. He loved to laugh and sing, and was always smiling and willing to lend a helping hand; he never met a stranger.

A lifelong member of Mt. Sinai Baptist Church, Don will now join the celestial congregation and perhaps find time for a heavenly round of golf. He was preceded in passing by his parents, Jennie Dean Allen and Carver Spurgeon Bridges; siblings, Spurgeon Bridges, Lawrence Bridges, Carl Bridges, Lee Bridges, and Dorothy Wilkerson; and son, Patrick Bridges. Don’s legacy continues through his devoted wife, Leila Church; son Timothy Bridges (Melinda); daughters Jessica Laney (Scott), and Tamra Church. He is also survived by his sister Jolena Rabon, twin brother Dean Bridges (Barbara), and cherished grandchildren: Trinity Bridges, Justin Bridges, Peyton Laney, and Sage Church.

Join us in celebrating Don’s life at a memorial service on Wednesday, March 26, 2025 at 2pm at Mt. Sinai Baptist Church, with Pastor Tim Trexler officiating. Friends and family will gather one hour prior to the service to reminisce and share a tale or two about Don. Burial will follow in the church cemetery, ensuring he remains close to home and heart.

In parting, we remember Don as a devoted husband, loving father, caring grandfather, and good friend.

Cremation services are entrusted to Clay-Barnette Funeral Home & Aquamation Center: www.claybarnette.com