Merlene Bridge, age 70, passed away peacefully, with her family’s love guiding her spirit, on January 10, 2025, in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. Born on December 23, 1954, in St. Andrew, Jamaica, to the late Uriah Bridge and Violda Downer, Merlene’s life was a testament to hard work, determination, and love.
Merlene spent much of her life in Jamaica, where she worked tirelessly in a garment factory, embodying the value of hard work and resilience. In 2000, she courageously embarked on a new chapter of life, immigrating to the United States. She settled in New York and began her career as a home health aide, caring for those unable to care for themselves—a role that reflected her deep compassion and nurturing spirit. She later moved to New Jersey and eventually retired to Mount Pleasant, Tennessee, seeking warmer weather and a peaceful country lifestyle.
Merlene was a caring and loving person, but she was also very particular and had a spicy spirit, unafraid to speak her mind and share her perspective. Her generosity knew no bounds; she was always willing to give and help others. Her determination and strength were evident in every aspect of her life.
Merlene found joy in tending to her flowers and plants, particularly her beloved tulips, nurturing them with almost the same care she showed to her family and friends. An avid Scrabble enthusiast, she would often play solo when she didn’t have an opponent to share a game with. She also loved crocheting, creating beautiful blankets and other gifts for each of her grandchildren, leaving behind tokens of her love and creativity.
A devoted attendee of the Lobelville Seventh-Day Adventist Church, Merlene’s faith was an integral part of her life, providing her with strength and guidance.
Merlene’s family and friends will remember her as a vibrant, generous, and determined woman who loved deeply and gave selflessly. She leaves behind a legacy of love, care, and countless cherished memories.
The family will receive friends on January 24, 2025, from 10:00 AM until 12:00 PM, with a service to follow at 12:00 PM in the chapel of Williams Funeral Home in Columbia, Tennessee. Pastor Daniel Spencer will officiate the service. Merlene will be laid to rest at Polk Memorial Gardens in Columbia, TN. A reception will follow at Williams Funeral Home in Blevins Hall.
Merlene is survived by her children: Leslene (Michael) Lewis, Roxanne Carter, Cornelia (David) Sidney, Craig (Judice) Waugh, and Thandeka Waugh; grandchildren: Vanessa Wizzard, Savannah Lewis, Jonathan Lewis, Tevez Maitland, Brittania Brown, Charity Waugh, Nathaniel Waugh, and Daniel Sidney; sister: Pauline Bridge; nieces and nephews: Mitzie Duggan, Fayanna Brown, Maurice Campbell, and Ricardo Campbell; “Uncle Son” and several cousins and friends.
In honor of Merlene’s life, her family encourages all who knew her to nurture the beauty around them, whether through tending flowers, sharing a kind word, or giving to those in need.
Williams Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.