Furman David Bridges, 90, was born on January 24, 1923 in Cleveland County, NC, to Joseph Shuford and Senora Thompson Bridges. He departed this life in the comfort of his home, surrounded by family, on Thursday, January 31, 2013.
He was a graduate of Washington High School in Cleveland County and attended A&T State College in Greensboro. Mr. Bridges served in the U.S. Navy during World War II.
Mr. Bridges was one of the first eight African American city bus drivers in Charlotte. He also held various other jobs, including maintenance supervisor at Dalton Village; church administrator at First Baptist Church-West; orderly at Charlotte Memorial Hospital; and courier for General Steel Drum.
Mr. Bridges was very active in his church and community. At First Baptist Church-West, he served in many capacities, including deacon, church photographer, layman, Friendship Tray deliverer, and Bridge Builders (Mecklenburg Ministries). As a scout master, he received the Silver Beaver award.
Following his example, two of Mr. Bridges’ grandsons, Christopher and Tyquan, have become Eagle Scouts. He served as PTA president at Lincoln Heights Elementary School and vice chair for Mecklenburg County Precinct 55. Mr. Bridges participated in international volunteer work in Ghana (Africa) and forged strong relationships in his Ghanaian community.
He was married to the late Oreatha Borders Bridges. Their two older sons, Jerald Michael and David Anthony, preceded him in death. He is survived by sons and daughters, Kenneth Markeath (Cassandra), Furma Denise, Audrey Wallace (David), Aprella, Wesley “Donnie”, and Robin (Jenny); two daughters-in-law, Phyllis and Lanette; one brother, William Bridges; four sisters, Winifred Bridges, Aileen Webber, Senora Peterkin, and Pauline Gill; 5 sisters-in-law, Geneva Ramseur, Corene Freeman, Shirley Borders, Gwendolyn Robinson, and Eudell Bridges; 14 grandchildren; 20 great grandchildren; and a host of other relatives and friends.
A service of memory will be held on Monday, February 4, at 7 p.m. Visitation will begin at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, February 5, followed by the homegoing service at 12 noon. All services will be at First Baptist Church-West, 1801 Oaklawn Avenue, in Charlotte, where Dr. Ricky Woods will officiate.
Alexander Funeral Home is serving the family. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to First Baptist Church-West or Boy Scout Troop 62.
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