Johnnie “John” Lee Bridgeman of Farmington passed into eternal rest on July 24, 2024, at Parkland Hospital. He was born on September 15, 1948, in Springtown, Missouri to the late Lee and Rose (Nettles) Bridgeman. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, James “Buck” Bridgeman, and a niece, Kathy Crocker.
John grew up in Springtown and the Potosi area. He was known for being a man of many aptitudes having many career paths throughout his life. As a young boy, he taught himself how to work on small motors and that ignited a passion that ultimately determined the trajectory of his life. He was drafted to the military but was quickly honorably discharged after they learned he had open heart surgery as a child. He then worked for Chrysler Corporation while maintaining Bridgeman’s Auto where he worked on racing engines/dune buggies. Other endeavors include owning a tavern and one of his favorites: the drive-in theater located in Fredericktown. He eventually went to work as a traveling mechanic for Brown Shoe International, where he worked for 21 years. When they presented his assignment to Hong Kong, he declined so he could be at home with his wife and children, which inspired him to start Bridgeman’s Construction. He was proud to work alongside his son, Jimmy and to have built his daughters a dance/gymnastics facility (FCAC). Needless to say, John could fix anything and never backed down from a challenge. He was a jokester known for his quick wit, storytelling and ability to make you smile. He was the rock of his family, always being their go-to guy. He was there for anyone that needed help, especially in the racing community. Being the pit crew for his son and grandson were some of his fondest memories.
Surviving is his wife of 40 years, Jenny (Tice) Bridgeman; his children, Jimmy “Tank” (Megan) Bridgeman, Cindy (Josh) Scoggins, and Chelsey (Alex) Freund; and he was a wonderful “PawPaw” to his grandchildren, Brody “Bro-Man” Bridgeman, Emrie Scoggins, Jensen Scoggins, Tilley Scoggins and Colson Freund. Also surviving are his siblings Mary Bridgeman, Joyce (Jim) Morgan and Donald (Debbie) Bridgeman; nieces, nephews; special lifelong friend, Mark Dotson, and good friend, Sam Coleman.
Visitation will be held Tuesday, July 30, 2024, from 5 to 8 p.m. at Cozean Memorial Chapel. Visitation will resume on Wednesday morning beginning at 9 a.m. until the funeral service beginning at 11 a.m. in the Cozean Chapel with Pastor Alan Berry officiating. View the tribute video and share your condolences at cozeanfuneralhome.com.
