Monty Lloyd Bridges

Monty Lloyd Bridges passed away peacefully on November 17, 2024, at the age of 66, in Mansfield, Texas.

Monty was born in Cleburne, Texas on May 13, 1958, to Jim and Helen Bridges. Monty grew up in Forest Hill, Texas, and after graduating from OD Wyatt High School, he earned his AAS degree at TSTI in Waco in HVAC.

Upon returning to the Fort Worth area, Monty married Carolee Martchenke, and they lived in Mansfield, where Monty's parents and siblings made their homes. 

Monty and Carolee had two children, Katie and Blake, who were Monty’s pride and joy.

Being a true Texan, Monty never lived more than 30 minutes from his birthplace and childhood home. Monty enjoyed being with his family during holidays, birthdays and weekends. 

Monty worked many years for Arthur Hagar AC, and later joined in his father’s business, Jim Bridges Sporting Goods in Fort Worth. After 20 years in the sporting goods business, Monty went back into the Air Conditioning trade and concluded his career with Calverley Heat and Air.

Monty had many hobbies and interests that brought him joy. His love for fly fishing in the serene streams of Lake City, Colorado, or the tranquil water of Lake San Cristobal reflected his deep connection with nature. Monty cherished the annual tradition of spending a week there with his family, a tradition that endured from his childhood into adulthood. One of his greatest joys, and proudest accomplishments, was imparting the art of fly fishing to Katie and Blake, creating lasting memories of shared moments and the love of the great outdoors. 

Monty was forever captivated by the waters of Lake Whitney. From a young age, he embraced the thrill of waterskiing, mastering the art with a passion that defined him. Monty’s prowess on the lake was truly remarkable – his ability to effortlessly kick off his slalom ski and glide barefoot across the smooth waters left all who witnessed it in awe. Lake Whitney was not just a place for him; it was a canvas where he painted memories of exhilarating moments and pure joy. May the echoes of his laughter on those waters linger as a testament to the vibrant spirit he brought to every wave. 

In remembering Monty, we acknowledge the complexities of his journey. He grappled with addiction, battled through recovery, and faced the challenges of relapse. Yet, amidst these struggles, Monty’s life was not defined solely by hardship. He experienced moments of profound joy and deep sadness, weaving a tapestry of experiences that shaped him. It was through perseverance and the embrace of redemption that Monty found solace, offering us all a lesson in resilience and the enduring human spirit. 

Monty embraced life with an indomitable spirit, zest for life, and a heart full of love. He will always be remembered for his kind heart, his strong work ethic and his unwavering love for his family. May his soul find eternal peace with his beloved Katie and Blake. 

Monty is preceded in death by his parents, Jim and Helen Bridges; his son, Blake Alexander Bridges and his daughter, Kathleen Bridges England.

He is survived by his brother, Marshall and his wife Melinda; his sister, Melissa Akin and her husband Rick; his son-in-law, Ernie England; his daughter-in-law, Clarissa Bridges; his grandchildren, Dylan, Brionna, Bailey and Drayden Bridges, Elizabeth and Ellie England; his stepson, Hunter England and wife Madellyn; his great-grandson, Robbie England; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Alzheimer’s Assocation or to an animal shelter of your choice.

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