SHELBY: Carver Don Bridges, affectionately known as "Don," peacefully teed off on his final journey from Cleveland County, the same place he joyfully called home for 86 years. Born on August 16, 1938, Don left the course on March 22, 2025, not a sand trap in sight.

Don dedicated his life to teaching--whether it was opening young minds as a history teacher at Crest High School or guiding bus drivers through the highways and byways of Cleveland County. In his later years, he took his wisdom to the state level, instructing defensive driving classes. One can only assume he approached this role with the same enthusiasm as he did driving his golf cart.

An ardent golfer, Don could often be found perfecting his swing between history lessons. Yet his interests were as vast as his travels with his beloved Leila. Together, they conquered bucket lists and zip lines alike, proving that age was merely a number when he soared through the skies at 80. Don had a penchant for Westerns and never turned down an opportunity to dine at his cherished Golden Corral.

A lifelong member of Mt. Sinai Baptist Church, Don will now join the celestial congregation and perhaps find time for a heavenly round of golf. Preceded in passing by his parents and many siblings, Don's legacy continues through his devoted wife, Leila Church, and their offspring: son Timothy McDonald Bridges (Melinda) of Lexington, KY; daughters Tamra Church, the favorite, of Pollocksville, and Jessica Laney (Scott) of Newton. He is also survived by his sister Jolena Rabon of Charlotte, brother Dean Allen Bridges (Barbara) of Shelby, and his cherished grandchildren: Trinity Bridges, Justin Bridges, Sage Church, and Peyton Laney.

Join us in celebrating Don's life at a memorial service on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, at 2:00 PM at Mt. Sinai Baptist Church, with Pastor Tim Trexler officiating. Friends and family will gather one hour prior to the service to reminisce and perhaps share a tale or two about Don. Burial will follow in the church cemetery, ensuring he remains close to home and heart.

In parting, we remember Don's motto: "You got to toot your own horn because no one is gonna toot it for you." Let's all give one big, final honk for Don--husband, father, grandfather, and legendary history lover.

Cremation services are entrusted to Clay-Barnette Funeral Home & Aquamation Center. www.claybarnette.com