Billy Gene Bridges, 88, passed away on Monday, November 3, 2025, at Atrium Health Cleveland Hospital. Born in Cleveland County on August 31, 1937, he was the son of the late Henry Andrew Bridges and Pauline Lovelace Bridges.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Helen Clark Bridges, and his sisters, Rachel Stewart, Nancy Waters, and Judy Bridges.

Billy was a devoted member of Ascension Lutheran Church in Shelby for more than 65 years. He was also an active and proud member of the Shelby Amateur Radio Club. A talented photographer, Billy loved capturing special moments and was responsible for wiring the entire sound system at the Cleveland County Fair, as well as providing photographic advertising for the event.

Above all, Billy was deeply devoted to his family and took great pride in their many accomplishments.

He is survived by his daughter, Anna Fretto (Mike); son, Tim Bridges (Jennifer); grandchildren, Jennifer Lowery McSwain (Chad), Jessica Fowler (Wesley), and Chloe Bridges; and great-grandchildren, Taylor McSwain, Kayla McSwain, Jordan Fowler, and Makenzie Fowler. He is also survived by his sister, Trudy Martin (Scott); brothers, Lee Bridges (Connie) and Fred Bridges (Doris); and sister, Shirley Reichartz (Mike Moore).

The family will receive friends from 9:30 AM until 10:30 AM on Monday, November 10, 2025 at the Cecil M. Burton Funeral Home.

A graveside service will follow at 11:00 AM at Cleveland Memorial Park with Reverend Robert Rash officiating.

Memorial donations may be made in his memory to Ascension Lutheran Church in Shelby.


Online condolences can be shared at www.cecilmburtonfuneralhome.com.


Cecil M. Burton Funeral Home & Crematory is honored to serve the family.