Gilbert Eugene Bridgeman, better known as Gene, departed this life Saturday, July 9, 2011 at his home in the Murl community of Wayne County reaching the age of 81 years. Gene was born on June 3, 1930 to the late Charlie and Myrtie (Hughes) Bridgeman.

He accepted Christ as his Savior in 1990 and attended Highway Holiness Church when his health permitted.

Gene is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Pauline Crabtree Bridgeman and to this union 2 children were born, Barbara Jean and Gilbert Ray.

Survivors include, Barbara and Her husband, Oscar Dykes of Somerset, KY; 1 sister, Maxine Piercy of Monticello, KY; 8 grandchildren, Melissa Canada, Darrell and Melaney Canada, Mark and Linda Canada, Misty and Sam Johnson, Chrystal and Kevin Speaks, Michael Bridgeman, Joshua White and Wendy Bridgeman. Also his in-laws, Helen Crabtree, Ray and Alice Crabtree, Emily Crabtree, Sue Dishman, Carlie and Judy Crabtree, and Claude and Shirley Hurt. He is also survived by: 15 great grandchildren, Aaron Vaught, Dustin Meece, Jacob Canada, Alex and Austin Helton, Connor and Colyer Speaks and Jessalyn and Madelyn Johnson, Gage, Chelsea, MaKayla and Nevaeh Bridgeman and Jayla and Kaitlyn White; and 1 great-great grandchild, Tanner Vaught.

Gene was preceded in death by his son, Gilbert "Gib" Bridgeman; 4 brothers, Earl Edwards, Lonnie Edwards, Robert Bridgeman and Marion "Old Timer" Bridgeman; 3 sisters, Elsie Atkinson, Flonnie Catron, and Lena Hicks.

He leaves behind many nieces, nephews, friends, and neighbors to mourn his passing.
Gene will be remembered for his love of life, family and friends. His laughter and good nature are things we will treasure; he brought us such joy.

The family will receive friends on Tuesday, July 12, 2011 from 5 – 9 pm in the chapel of the funeral home. Funeral services will be held Wednesday, July 13, 2011 at 1 pm at the Marvin S. Hicks Funeral Home with Bro. Richard Morrow and Bro. Darrell Ragan officiating. Burial will be in Taylor's Grove Cemetery.