James Edward Bridges Jr.

CWO4 James E. Bridges, Jr.

After a courageous five and a half year battle with cancer, James E. Bridges, Jr., 66, of Dunnellon, Florida passed away on January 12, 2013. He was born to James E. Bridges, Sr. and Vera Mae Clemons Bridges at the family homestead in Raiford, Florida on August 15, 1946.

Jim served 30 proud years in the U.S. Coast Guard and retired as a Chief Warrant Officer 4 in 1996. He then went on to work for the South Florida Water Management District as Professional Supervisor of Pump Stations and retired in 2007.

Jim is survived by his devoted wife of 42 years, Penny L. Dill Bridges and his three beloved children, James Aaron Bridges (Heather), James E. "Trey" Bridges, III and Marina L. Bridges Cravey (Aaron); grandchildren, Kyler, Travis and Aislin; father, James E. Bridges, Sr.

Jim's family was his passion and he was always there to support them in all their endeavors. He was full of smiles and had the gift of laughter. Jim will live on through the many lives he touched.

On Thursday, January 17, 2013 there will be a viewing from 5 to 7 PM at Roberts Funeral Home, 19939 E. Pennsylvania Ave., Dunnellon, FL. On Friday, January 18, 2013 visitation will begin at 10 AM and a service will be from 11 AM to noon. A ceremony with full military honors will follow at Florida National Cemetery, 6502 SW 102nd Ave., Bushnell, FL from 1:30 to 2:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, Jim requested donations be made to Moffitt Cancer Center Foundation (Moffitt.org) or Hospice of Marion County, Inc. (hospiceofmarion.com)