Ralph Goss Bridges

Ralph Goss Bridges passed away on November 5, 2013 at his home in the Salem community, Lexington, GA.
Ralph was the son of the late Walter and Rosa Chafin Bridges. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Margaret Sanders Bridges; and his children: Steve (Glenda), daughter-in-law Debbie Hopkins Bridges, Iris Walker (Barry), John Mark (Tricia), Walter (Maria), and David (Gloria); and 22 grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, son Terry Alan Bridges Sr., and four brothers and five sisters: Walter Everett Bridges, Louis Harris Bridges, William Chafin "Jake" Bridges, Charles Cecil Bridges, Florrie Elizabeth Paul, Rosa Lee Bridges, Eleanor Louise Bridges, Jonell "Nell" Gillespie, and Emily Ann Saye.
Ralph was a member and a deacon of the Salem Baptist Church. He served Oglethorpe county in several capacities of farm and cattle organization. He was a Director of the American Angus Association from 1988-1990, President of the Georgia Angus Association from 1989-1990, President of the Georgia Cattlemen's Association in 1992, President of the American Angus Association in 1996, Past President of the Oglethorpe County Cattlemen's Association and Georgia Farm Bureau, and Chairman of the Board of First Commerce Bank.
He was an avid Angus Cattle breeder & turkey farmer. He was the owner of Bridges Angus Farms, for over 50 years.
Pall bearers are Steven Bridges, Ethan Bridges, Alan Bridges, Phillip Bridges, Lee Walker, Brandon Walker, Mark Bridges, Brad Bridges, Mason Mendez, and David Bridges.
Visitation is at Salem Baptist Church, Lexington, GA on Thursday November 7, 2013 at 1:00 to 2:45; the funeral is to follow at 3 o'clock. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made at the Salem Baptist Church's Baptismal Park Fund.
Mr. Bridges always said he had a great life and truly enjoyed the ride. His church, family and cattle were his joy.