James Larry Bridges

MCPO James L. Bridges, USCG (ret) crossed the bar on Monday, March 30, 2015. He began his life’s journey in Miami, FL enjoying the boyhood adventures Florida has to offer. He enlisted in the USN after his 17th birthday affording him the opportunity to experience life through the people and cultures of the four corners of the world and gain valuable trade skills all while enjoying his love of the sea. He re-enlisted in the USCG serving in Viet Nam, rescuing merchant sailors at sea, directing schools, and finishing his highly decorated 33 year career as a Command Enlisted Advisor. This was his most rewarding assignment as his passion was to help people with a “hand up” more than a “hand out”. Mentor is the common word used by so many to describe him. He lived his life involved in family, community, military service, singing country music, and golf. He never met a stranger. He loved cooking for family and a few friends as well as huge picnics and events. He is known as “Mr. Maaaahvelous” because he was upbeat, faced adversity head-on, and did not let the drama of life get him down; an overcomer strengthened to achieve many things. He will be greatly missed but always remembered by family and friends, the absolute love of his life for 35 years, his wife Greta and his generations of children Terri (and John), Sherri (and Barry), Brandi (and Michael), Amber, Barry, Shelby, Destiny, Braydon, and one more on the way. Fair winds and following seas Master Chief. BZ. Memorial contributions may be made to Carolina Youth Development Center 5055 Lackawanna Blvd N. Chas SC 29464. A memorial service will be held at Cokesbury UMC, 4990 Dorchester Rd N.Chas SC on April 11, 2015 at 2:00pm with Rev. Megan Gray officiating. McALISTER-SMITH FUNERAL HOME WEST ASHLEY CHAPEL (843) 722-8371. www.mcalister-smith.com