Michael Ray Bridges, age 68, of Meadows of Dan, VA, left this world peacefully on June 25, 2024.
Michael was born in Stuart, VA, on January 25, 1956, to the late Virginia Rhumell Boyd Willett. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Luther and Irene Boyd of Meadows of Dan, VA.
Throughout his life, Michael had several careers. He served as a River Boat Captain from 1973-1974 in Meadows of Dan. Following this, he worked at WHEO radio station as a DJ and ad sales associate from 1975-1977. In 1977, Michael began a distinguished 20-year career with the Patrick County Sheriff’s Office, where he served under three sheriffs as a court officer, road deputy, and deputy jailer. Michael’s greatest passion was his love for music. In 1977, he joined The Joyful Noise with his two best friends, where he enjoyed singing the gospel of Jesus Christ and made many friends along the way. His voice and the sweet chords of his guitar will forever be remembered.
Left to cherish his memory are his son, Phillip Bridges, of Meadows of Dan, VA; daughter and son-in-law, Pamela and Jeremiah Arnold of Florida; three grandchildren, Brooklyn Holt, Elliot Holt, and Liam Arnold; half-brother Carl Bridges of VA beach, cousin, Ronnie Boyd of Meadows of Dan; Maxine Mullmax of North Carolina; Barry Boyd and his wife of Meadows of Dan, VA; and his bandmates and best friends, Bill Banks and Rick Hill, who shared over 40 years of music and love.
A private memorial will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to The Joyful Noise c/o Rick Hill. “When Jesus splits those Eastern skies and we hear that trumpet sound, then all our loved one’s dead in Christ are gonna raise up from the ground. This life is short while here on earth, but we’ll gain the victory. Our life’s will be continued when Jesus comes again.”
