Bruce Edward Bridges, age 59 of Mooresboro, NC, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Thursday, October 14, 2021.

He is survived by his loving wife of 36 years, Jackie McSwain Bridges of the home, his children, Andy Bridges of Mooresboro, NC, and Callie Perez and husband Irving of Hickory, NC, a granddaughter who was the joy of his life, Ana-Sophia Perez, a brother, Vance Bridges of Shelby, NC, two aunts, Madge Philbeck and Selma Bess, both of Mooresboro, NC, a nephew, Will McSwain of Cherryville, NC, and numerous cousins.

Born December 25, 1961 in Cleveland County, Bruce was the son of the late John Edward Bridges and Martha Colleen Philbeck Bridges and was preceded in death by his brother, Richard Bridges. In his younger years, Bruce enjoyed working on the family farm and dairy.

Bruce was a beloved teacher at Crest Middle school where he shared his love for science with 7^th and 8^th graders. He was a proud Kenan Fellow, class of 2012, who was passionate about building bridges between the classroom and the workplace. Bruce received his bachelor's and master's degrees from Gardner-Webb University. Bruce was an active member at Crestview Baptist Church where he served as a Deacon, was a prayer warrior, and helped run the multimedia system. Following his own battle with cancer, Bruce became a volunteer at Carolina Medical Center in Charlotte where he mentored other amputees.

Bruce enjoyed spending time with his family and his precious granddaughter. He made the best homemade ice cream in the state.

A memorial service will be held at 4:00 pm Sunday, October 17, 2021 at Crestview Baptist Church. A visitation will be held from 2:00 - 4:00 pm prior to the service at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the United Christian Missions, P.O. Box 1038, Boiling Springs, NC 28017 or to the Nathan Beck Scholarship Fund at Crestview Baptist Church, 1090 Old Boiling Springs Road, Shelby NC 28152.

To sign the guest book, please go to www.clevelandfuneralservices.com.

A service of Cleveland Funeral Services & Crematory, Inc.