Vernon Hugh Bridges

Vernon lived life through his 70th birthday, which we all celebrated March 26. He went to his eternal home on Saturday morning, April 27, 2024, after battling pulmonary fibrosis. He lost his ability to breathe here on earth, but we can rejoice in the fact that he is now breathing freely with Jesus, the breath of life. Healed completely. 

Vernon loved so many, so much. He loved his Lord and served anyway he could to let others see Jesus through him. He planted so many seeds, not with only words, but by his actions of kindness and service and prayer. 

Vernon was active in God’s work all his life, serving as a deacon, and member of many groups providing service where needed. Being part of Flint Hill Baptist Church choir or praise team gave him a song in his heart when he returned home every time. He loved it. Not only did he love to sing, he enjoyed the fellowship and laughter of friends with whom he sung. “Good times” he would say.

Vernon was the most awesome husband, father, grandfather, friend. People who met him grew to love him quickly because of his demeanor and he was their friend for life. If you happen to touch on subjects he really enjoyed, like muscle cars or music or favorite TV shows, you captured his attention and he was ready to discuss these topics in depth the next time he talked to you. Pure enjoyment.

His love for his family was felt by each one of them. He went to God in prayer every day, seeking His protection, guidance, aid, and blessings over his family in every step of their lives. Being an only child, he adopted Susan’s brothers and sisters and their spouses as his own, and in turn, they treated him the same way. What a testament to the love and respect they all shared for him when they all showed up after hearing of his distress in his last days. They came from all over, and have stayed to take care of every detail needed for him and Susan & Stephanie’s family. The amount of love and helpfulness flowing through his home with them all present could only have come from God’s plan. His nieces and nephews were a big part of his life, and all have come, called, or sent heartfelt messages with memories shared of them with Uncle Vernon. 

Vernon is survived by his wife, Susan, and they had celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on January 12th. He will always be her heart. They shared everything in life, loved every minute they could spend together at any time, and were happily-ever-after married from the age of 19. 

He is also survived by their only daughter, Stephanie B Hammonds, and her husband, Kendall Hammonds. Vernon loved these 2 people immensely. Kendall became their son. Stephanie and Kendall watched over, prayed, ran errands, helped move & unpack them and helped planned family outings - all from their love and respect. They will miss his love and guidance for them.

In addition, he is also survived by his 3 grandchildren - Genevieve Hammonds, 21, graduating from Clemson this May; Jaxson Hammonds, 17, graduating from Nation Ford High School next year, and Jensen Hammonds, 6, graduating from Kindergarten in May. Oh, how he loved these 3 kids, and they him in return! 

Vernon is the only son of Hugh & Dot Bridges, who are predeceased, along with his grandparents, Thomas & Lillian Bridges, Minnie Ella & Thomas Pruett, and Coy & Alice Mauney. What a loving family they all were! They gave Vernon a solid foundation in worshiping and loving God. What mentors they all were! They, along with so many aunts and uncles and cousins and friends who have gone before him are all joining Jesus in celebrating with him in heaven now and forever. What reassurance that is!

We will be remembering Vernon in a Memorial Service at Flint Hill Baptist Church, 269 Flint Hill Road, Fort Mill, SC 29715 at 2:00 pm on Sunday, April 28, 2024. 

Remembrances, in lieu of flowers, should be made to Flint Hill Baptist Church (general fund) at mailing address PO Box 518, Pineville, NC 28134 or to VIA Health Partners Hospice - Fort Mill Division, 7845 Little Ave, Charlotte, NC 28226, who were instrumental in the loving care provided to Vernon, especially by his Nurse Gabby.