Thomas L. Bridges, age 97, of O’Fallon, IL, born on July 27, 1927, in East St. Louis, IL, to Harry A and Ellen, nee Fitzgerald Bridges, passed away on Tuesday, August 6, 2024, at the Colonnade Senior Living Center, O’Fallon, IL.
Immediately after graduating in 1946 from East St. Louis High School, Tom enlisted and served his country in the U.S. Army, Storied 7th Cavalry Regiment in Tokyo, Japan.
Tom began his 33-year career in the sewing industry at Tacony Corporation, Fenton MO., retiring as Senior Vice President of Sales. His innovative ideas were honored by the sewing industry by selecting him to their Hall of Fame. His motto was “It’s not how you win or lose, but how you play the game.” He played his game of life honorably.
Tom was a “Cradle Presbyterian.” He belonged to the First United Presbyterian Church of Belleville for over 50 years. He served his Lord as Elder, Trustee and Deacon of his church. Dear to his heart was sharing his love of boating on Lake of Egypt with his family and friends. Tom met his wife, Inez, while attending engineering school, Rolla School of Mines. They were married for 74 years.
He was preceded in death by his daughter, Teresa Kay Johnson; and his son, S. Douglas Bridges.
Surviving is his wife, Inez Bridges; his grandsons, Michael Bridges (Patty Tippett), Patrick Bridges, and Christopher Bridges; daughter-in-law, Paula Bridges, and his son-in-law, William Johnson. Tom is also survived by many dear family members.
If friends desire, memorials can be made in Tom’s name to First United Presbyterian Church of Belleville, IL.
Graveside Service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, August 9, 2024, in the Masonic Garden, Lake View Memorial Gardens, Fairview Heights, IL. All are welcome to attend.
The Bridges Family has trusted Kassly Mortuary, Ltd., Fairview Heights, IL., in making all funeral arrangements.
