Dr. Robert Edward Bridges, Sr. (Bob), age 86, of Gainesville, died on Saturday, September 26, 2015. He was preceded in death by his wife of sixty years, Marie J. Bridges; three sons. Dr. Robert E. Bridges Jr., Scott M. Bridges, and James P. Bridges; and his brother, Leon Bridges.
Dr. Bridges was the son of Louise (Mulkey) and Leon Bridges of Atlanta. He received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Emory University and a Master of Divinity from the Candler School of Theology. He earned a Doctor of Ministries degree from McCormick Theological Seminary in 1982.
Dr. Bridges was a United Methodist Pastor who served the church for 41 years. He was superintendent of both the Gainesville and the Atlanta-Marietta Districts. From 1989-1993, he was program director for the North Georgia Annual Conference. The churches that he served include Blue Ridge First United Methodist, Calhoun First United Methodist, Dalton First United Methodist, St. John United Methodist (Atlanta), and Oak Grove United Methodist (Decatur).
Dr. Bridges is survived by one daughter, Kathy Huie (and her husband Richard), one son, Lee Bridges, and four grandchildren: Katy Huie Harrison (and her husband John), Mark Huie (and his wife Lindsay), Maggie Kennedy, and David Bridges. He is also survived by three great-granddaughters: Kaitlyn Kennedy, Avery Huie, and Scottlyn Bridges. Survivors also include a special niece, Debbie Lawhorn, and his caregiver, Pat Abernathy.
A memorial service will be held at Saint Paul United Methodist Church on Tuesday, September 29 at 1 o’clock in the afternoon. The family will receive friends prior to the service, between 11am and 1pm. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made to Saint Paul UMC, 404 Washington Street, Gainesville, GA, 30506.
