Mrs. Joan Bridges

A Celebration of Life service for Mrs. Joan Bridges, 78, of Henderson, will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 17, 2024, at First Methodist Church of Henderson, officiated by Rev. Mike Mayhugh. Family and friends are invited to gather in the Great Hall following the service to share memories and offer condolences. Joan will forever be remembered as a vibrant and loving presence in the lives of all who knew her. She was a dedicated teacher, cherished friend, devoted sister, beloved wife, and a treasured aunt, mother, and grandmother. Her warmth and joy filled every role she embraced. Joan had a unique ability to make everyone she met feel like an instant friend. Her radiant smile and infectious laughter will be profoundly missed but will live on in the hearts of all she touched. Mrs. Bridges passed away on Tuesday, December 10, 2024, in Tyler. Born on February 8, 1946, in Henderson to the late Jay Brown and Ora Lea Griffin, she led a life filled with passion and dedication. She was the owner of the East Texas Twirling Academy for over 50 years, shaping countless young lives with her talent and enthusiasm. A graduate of New London High School, she attended Stephen F. Austin State University, where she served as the Head Twirl-O-Jack and later became the Choreographer for 37 years. In addition to twirling, she was a competitive USTA tennis player. Joan was also a devoted member of the First Methodist Church of Henderson and sang in the church choir. In addition to her parents, Joan was preceded in death by her brother, Jerry Griffin. She is survived by her husband, Terry Bridges of Henderson; her sons, Brad Bridges, and Clay Bridges, both of Henderson; her sister, Patricia Bridges and husband Jerry; her brother, Gary Griffin, all of Henderson; her beloved grandchildren, Cannon Bridges, Madisyn Elliott and husband Kane, and Bradley Bridges; and numerous nieces and nephews who held a special place in her heart. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to First Methodist Church of Henderson, 204 N. Marshall St., Henderson, TX 75652, or to the Bridges Cemetery, 1307 Westwood, Henderson, TX 75654. Joan’s legacy of love, kindness, and laughter will remain an enduring inspiration to all who knew her. Words of comfort may be shared with the family at www.crawfordacrim.com.

Mrs. Joan Bridges

February 8, 1946 - December 10, 2024