On April 24, 2024, Julia Teresa Bridges — wife, mom, sister, and Lulu (the family's name for grandma) – passed away peacefully while surrounded by family members. In the days preceding her death, the family learned first-hand that the Lord is near to the brokenhearted. In the days since she passed into glory, they have seen that her beautiful life led to an outpouring of love and memories from people who were fortunate enough to know her sincere warmth, abiding joy, and very well-honed sense of humor.

It is difficult to put into words just how much she loved, and how faithfully she served, her family. Until her last moments, she was seeking the comfort and well-being of her husband, her children, and her grandchildren. Even when it became difficult to speak, she would spell out "love" with her hands. She did not want any moment to pass without her family hearing, in some way, that they are seen and loved.

She was born on August 21, 1948 in Lakeland, FL and was a long-time member of Ardella Baptist Church in Lakeland. She is survived by her adoring husband, Arthur Cecil Bridges; sons, Kevin Bridges (Janine), Kyle Bridges (Courtney), and Tim Bridges (Krisy); brothers, Van and Frank Newberry; grandchildren, Carson, Micah, Delaney, Morgan, McKenna, Greyson, Owen, Amelia, Anna, and Camden.

Her love, humility, faith, and humor will travel through generations until we all join her before the throne of God. There he will wipe away every tear and welcome us to glorious mansions, each complete with a screened back porch to better hear the evening rain.

Services will take place Monday, April 29 at Gentry-Morrison Funeral Homes - Serenity Gardens Chapel 3350 Mall Hill Drive, Lakeland, FL 33810 Visitation 2:00pm Funeral 3:00pm