Donald Ray Bridges

Lakeland - Donald R. Bridges, a lifelong resident of Lakeland, took his last breath, and began to breathe the air of heaven on August 23, 2021.  Donald was born in Lakeland on March 25, 1952, son of the late Dolly and Joe Bridges.  He is survived by his spouse of 22 years, Rosemary Bridges, and his two children, Maegan and Nathaniel Bridges.  He also leaves behind his sister Martha Chambers, (Bill) and brother, David Bridges( Cheryl,) and four nieces and nephews. 

Donald graduated from F. S. C. In 1975.  He was active in the Lakeland Waterski Club as well as the FSC Ski Club, acquiring many trophies for competitive skiing during those years. He proudly performed the ladder on disc stunt which his father pioneered. Donald also obtained his private pilot’s license and loved to fly. 

Donald began to manage rental property in addition to his job at Sun PAC Foods. In 2005, Donald left his accounting position and became a full time landlord, doing most of his own repairs.  In his spare time Donald loved being on the water, in his orange 1972, Ski Nautique, or his jet ski with his children.

Donald was/is a man of integrity, faith in God, who embodied goodness and kindness in every fiber of his being. His loving dedication to his family was his #1 driving force. The void of his absence is immense and will remain. Until we meet again, we hold you in our hearts.

A gathering of family and friends will be held on Thursday, September 2, 2021, from 4-7 pm, at Lakeland Funeral Home & Memorial Gardens. A graveside service will be held on Friday, September 3, 2021, at 10 am, at Lakeland Memorial Gardens.

The family kindly asks that everyone that attends please wear a mask. Masks will be provided at the door.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Donald Ray Bridges, please visit our floral store.