of England, AR

December 23, 1950 - August 13, 2023

Rodney Allen Bridge, known to his loved ones as Rod, passed away on August 13, 2023 in Little Rock, Arkansas at the age of 72. He was born on December 23, 1950 in Baltimore, Maryland. Rod was a devoted husband, survived by his wife, Connie Craven Bridge of England, AR. He is also survived by his brother, Kim Bridge (Cathy) of Brookhaven, MS and sister, Carol Foster (Ray) of Dallas, Georgia. Rod was a loving father to his son, Scott Bridge of Rawlings, WY; stepdaughter, Tonya Douglas (Chad) of East End, AR and stepson, Chris Estes of Poquoson, VA. He was a proud grandfather to Samantha Bridge of Olympia, WA; Hunter Douglas, London Douglas, Ashtin Douglas and Drake Douglas of East End, AR; Autumn Estes of Leighton, AL and Karah Doran (Makennon) of Ozark, MO. Rod was also a beloved uncle to Jessie Epps (Jeff) of Wynne, AR and Tyler Bridge (Kristi) & Nick Bridge (Sarah) both of Brookhaven, MS.

Rod was preceded in death by his parents, Charles Bridge and Frances Hamby Rende; his stepfather, Robert Rende; his sister, Sandra Moore and his children; Matt and Jenny Bridge.

Rod attended Orange Park High School where he was captain of and lettered in both football and wrestling. He also attended Boys State. Rod later pursued higher education at Florida Community College.

Rod had a distinguished military career, serving in the US Army for 21 years. He was attached to the 101st Airborne, 143rd Transportation Command, AVN BDE 6th Infantry Division and served both domestically and abroad. Rod's dedication and skills earned him the rank of Master Sergeant. He also served as a Drill Sergeant, instilling discipline and shaping the future of his fellow soldiers.

After retiring from the military, Rod continued his service to the community by working in Civil Service as Clerk of the Court in Brevard County, FL. In addition, he pursued his passion for helping others through becoming a certified massage therapist.

Outside of his professional life, Rod had a passion for coaching football. He served as a volunteer football coach in England, AR with the England Youth Athletic Association for 10 years. He enjoyed sharing his knowledge and mentoring young athletes. Rod was also an avid golfer, spending many weekends with his grandsons on the green, honing his skills and enjoying the outdoors.

Funeral service will be 11:00 a.m. Monday, August 21, 2023 in the Chapel of Roller-England Funeral Home. Visitation will begin at 10:00am. Burial with military honors will be at Arkansas State Veterans' Cemetery in North Little Rock.

Rod will be deeply missed by his family, friends and all who had the privilege of knowing him. His dedication to his country, community and loved ones leaves behind a legacy of service and compassion. May he rest in peace.

Obituary Provided By:
Roller-England Funeral Home
202 Stuttgart Highway
England, AR  72046
www.rollerfuneralhomes.com