Annie M. Bridges

In Loving Memory of Annie Martha (Beard) Bridges

 January 18, 1940 – July 14, 2025

With hearts full of both sorrow and gratitude, we celebrate the life of our beloved Annie Martha Beard Bridges, who made her peaceful transition on Monday, July 14, 2025. Annie was born on January 18, 1940, in Lauderdale County, Tennessee, the third of eleven children born to the late Earl Beard Sr. and Virtress Lee Beard. She was a radiant light in our family, a joy to all who knew her, and a cherished soul whose presence will never be forgotten.

Annie graduated from Carver High School in 1960 and soon after became a devoted mother to her two beloved sons, Frederick Glen and Kenneth Lee. Annie’s life was full of adventure, elegance, and laughter. She had a spirited love for travel, visiting cities like Chicago and Las Vegas, enjoying ski trips in the mountains, and even venturing to Canada. One of her greatest joys was returning each year to Brownsville, Tennessee, for the family reunion weekend, a cherished tradition that included participating in the Labor Day Parade in nearby Ripley and proudly helping to organize and model in the family fashion show, where she showcased her beautiful collection of African outfits.

A vibrant woman of grace and fun, Annie had a natural elegance. She was a collector of beautiful jewelry, a talented pianist, and a “daddy’s girl” through and through. She taught etiquette to her nieces, spoiled her loved ones with shopping trips to Cato’s, and always said “yes” to Rice Park and Sonic. She had a signature sparkle that made everyone around her feel special.

Annie was a faithful member of Central Baptist Church for over 50 years. She was also a proud member of the National Brotherhood of Skiers, where she found joy and community among fellow adventurers.

Affectionately known as the “fun aunt,” Annie was a second mother to many and a true jokester at heart. She especially loved switching places with her younger and nearly identical sister, Darlene, just to make people laugh.

Annie had an eclectic work history over the years, embracing each role with her signature charm and warmth. Later in life, she found deep joy and purpose in caring for the late Mr. Harry Willet, who loved her dearly and held a special place in his heart for her kindness, companionship, and unwavering care.

She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Earl and Virtress Beard; her sisters Lollie Lee Mann and Julie Mae Taylor; her sister Nova Lucille Beard, who passed away in infancy; her brothers Welton Beard, William Frank Beard, and Bobby Beard; and several dear brothers-in-law.

She leaves behind a legacy of love through her sons, Frederick Glen Beard of Denver, Colorado, and Kenneth Lee Bridges of Loveland, Colorado. She also leaves her treasured grandchildren, Kenneth O’Shay Lewis-Bridges, Sierra Nicole Bridges, and Ava Orr-Bridges; and a host bonus grandchildren.

Annie is survived by her loving sister Darlene Carpenter (Robert), and brothers Earl (Madonna) Beard, Billy Beard, and Alex (Brenda) Beard. She was adored by a great host of nieces, nephews, and cousins, all of whom were touched by her warmth, generosity, and vibrant spirit.

To know Annie was to love her. Her laughter, wisdom, and boundless love live on in all of us. She was our sparkle, our joy, our beloved treasure.