of England, AR
September 5, 1948 - July 1, 2024
SGM Connie Lee Craven Bridge, beloved daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, soldier and accomplished artist, passed away on July 1, 2024 at the age of 75. She was born on September 5, 1948 in Memphis, Tennessee and most recently resided in England, Arkansas.
Connie graduated in 1966 from Clarksdale High School, MS. After graduation, Connie continued her love for dance and taught tap and various other dance classes. She also enjoyed attending her high school reunions.
She participated in the Miss Clarksdale Pageant in 1967, where she achieved the distinction of being the second alternate. Connie's dedication and talent as a baton twirler were recognized with 15 trophies and 37 medals.
Connie's commitment to service led her to join the US Army, where she served with honor and dedication. After 27 years of faithful service, she retired as a Sgt. Major on September 5, 2008. Connie made a lasting impact on those she served alongside.
Connie's compassion for creativity was evident throughout her life. From an early age, she found joy in painting and was skilled in various crafts such as sewing, crocheting and knitting. Her ability to create beauty with her hands brought her immense happiness.
Connie's legacy will live on through her creative works and the memories shared by those who knew and loved her. Her positive spirit, unwavering determination and dedication to her craft will continue to inspire others.
Connie also cherished her role as a mother and grandmother. She is survived by her loving children, Tonya Leflore-Douglas (Chad) of East End, AR, Chris Estes of Poquoson, VA and stepson, Scott Bridge of Rawlings, WY. Connie was a loving "Nana" to Hunter, London, Ashtin, Drake, Autumn and Karah. She took great pride in their accomplishments and supported them wholeheartedly. Connie's also survived by her sister, Allene Craven Jolly (David), Ingomar, MS.
Connie entered Heaven with open arms to greet her loving husband of 34 years, Rodney Bridge, who passed away in August 2023. She was also predeceased by her parents, Allen Chandler Craven, Jr. and Norma Rose Goldman Craven.
A funeral service will be held at 9:00 am on July 9th, 2024 at First Assembly of God in England, AR to honor Connie's life and celebrate the impact she had on those around her. Interment will be at the Arkansas State Veteran's Cemetery in North Little Rock, AR.
Connie's spirit will forever remain in the hearts of her family and friends. She will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.
Prayers of comfort to the family. I’m so sorry for your loss Tonya.
Connie was such a loving person. I always enjoyed her paintings. I am so glad I was part of her family.
Although, I only met her a few times her impact was very noticeable. Her ability to make new friends was an art.
Our hearts mourn with yours in this great time of loss.
My dear friend of 40 years, you will truly be missed. You can rest easy and be at peace now. I’ll always treasure o those memories .