Franklin "Frank" Thomas Bridges

Franklin Thomas Bridges, age 74, of Knoxville Tennessee went to be with Jesus on Wednesday September 8, 2021. He passed at his home with his family holding his hands.

Frank was preceded in death by his father, Franklin Henry Bridges and Mother Amelia May (Scarsella) Bridges. He is survived by his loving wife of 27 years Lahonna Bridges, children Kelly (Chris) Troff, Keith Bridges, Kevin Bridges and Carver (Cricket) Busch. Sisters Regina (Sandy) Bridges and Debora Bridges. Several special grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren.

Frank was a proud graduate of the University of Tennessee and an Air Force Vietnam Veteran.

He spent most of his career at AT&T in its various forms, but some of his most memorable years were spent in traveling the globe preparing technical staff to support new products.  His career took him many places, but Crystal River, Florida was special.  He loved sharing it with family and friends, and after retiring from telecommunications, he took to one of his passions, fishing.  Captain Frank Bridges, US Merchant Marine Officer, spent time on the water.  Fishing, Scalloping and Manatee tours were all part of his days in Crystal River. Never one to retire, he sold swimming pools and even delivered flowers around the area.

He loved his family and he loved teaching them to fish, hunt and ride motorcycles; but at the smoker he was king.  Most evenings you could find him cooking up something out on the deck. 

He was the most inclusive of men.  If he loved it, he wanted to share it with friends, acquaintances, and total strangers.  He loved life and he loved it with his wife of 27 years.

The first week of August for the last 29 years, Frank was found surrounded by friends in Rapid City, SD smokin’ up tri tips and ribs after a day of riding the black hills. 

There will be a celebration of life at a future time. In lieu of flowers please consider donating to the Wounded Warriors Project.

Gentry Griffey Funeral Chapel is honored to serve the Bridges family and invites you to view and sign the online registry.

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