James "Jim" Edward Bridgeman

May 9, 1931 - December 18, 2016

United States Army Corporal James "Jim" Edward Bridgeman, age 85, of Blountville, TN passed away Sunday, December 18, 2016 surrounded by loved ones. He was born on May 9, 1931 in Bristol, TN. Jim was a lifelong resident of the Bristol area. He deeply loved his country and was very proud to be a combat Korean War veteran, serving in the Artillery Division in the United States Army as a driver. He retired from Virginia Wholesale, formerly Jones Wholesale, after more than 30 years of employment and was regularly named Salesman of the Year. He enjoyed NASCAR, watching the growth and revitalization of the Bristol area, and current events. Jim was preceded in death by his father, William Arthur Bridgeman; his mother, Josie Marie McNamara Bridgeman; and his brothers, Billy Gene and Donald Bridgeman. He is survived by three loving sisters, Dorothy Booher and husband Earl, Ruth Jones, and Peggy Campbell and husband David; five supportive brothers, Wm. "Bill" Arthur, Jack and wife Rosemarie, Robert "Bud" and wife Dorothy, Gary and wife Aleta, and Harold and wife Sue; a daughter, Angela Pittman; several nieces and nephews, and many life-long friends and fellow veterans. The family will receive friends from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Monday, December 26, 2016 at Blevins Funeral & Cremation Services, 417 Lee St., Bristol, VA. A military graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 27, 2016 at Glenwood/Shelby Hills Cemetery, Bristol, TN with Reverend J. Austin Propst officiating. Anyone wishing to attend the graveside service is asked to meet at the funeral home at 1:30 p.m. on Tuesday to go in procession to the cemetery. The family extends heartfelt thanks to National Healthcare of Bristol, Grace Hospice of Central Texas, Affordable Burial and Cremation Services of Texas, Blevins Funeral & Cremation Services, and Shelby Hills Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, and to honor the life Jim led, please send memorial contributions to veteran and hospice organizations and volunteer your time where needed.