John Carroll Bridges, known to many as Papa, JCB and Daddy, died on January 16, 2022 after a long, heart wrenching battle with the hell that is Alzheimer's disease. He was born on December 17, 1936 in Rutherford County to R.G. & Lucille Bridges. He attended Tri-High School where he met his wife of 68 years, Carolyn Glennett Jones. He was a long time member of Westview Baptist Church.

Carroll was never afraid of work. He worked many jobs during his life, never believing that any job was beneath him. He worked at painting schools, delivering furniture, worked at Cliffside Mill, Putt Putt, Sears, Clyde Short, Bost Bakery, Cleveland Tech, Cleveland County Fair, Uptown Mini Storage, Charlotte Observer, Playground Safety, and was a motel owner/operator, among others. The jobs for which he was best known were Teaching and Counseling at Shelby City Schools for 39 years and managing the Shelby City Park Swimming Pool for over 20 years. During this time, he met, counseled and loved countless young people. He always referred to them as "his own".

JCB was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife, Glennett Bridges, a son, Michael Bridges and wife Margie, and a daughter, Susie Goins and husband Gene. He is also survived by Grandchildren, Christopher Bridges and wife, Selina, Matthew Bridges, Shannon Romano and husband, Michael, Great Grandchildren, Amelia and Cooper Romano, and beloved sisters and brothers-in-law, nieces and nephews.

The family would like to thank the wonderful staff at Peak Resources in Cherryville for their compassionate care during his long illness, and Michelle Michael for always making sure "Mr. John" was cared for.

JCB always said that he did not want a funeral service, but would rather have a party. We ask that you celebrate and remember him in a way that is meaningful to you, recalling the funny entertaining times you shared with this larger-than-life man. If you would like to share any special memories with the family, in lieu of flowers, it would be a great source of joy and comfort to the family in the days ahead. Send your thoughts to 2101 Chatfield Rd, Shelby, NC 28150. Memorials can also be made to The Life Enrichment Center of Shelby.

Please remember how he laughed and how he loved, and be assured that he is whole again with Jesus. Rejoice!

Online condolences can be made at www.cecilmburtonfuneralhome.com