Published on April 7, 2025 10:23 am
Last Updated on April 8, 2025 10:47 am
Carol Kaye Bridges (née Shafer), beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully after a courageous battle with Alzheimer’s disease. She was surrounded by her loving family.
Born to Frank and Frances Shafer, November 4, 1942, Carol was a devoted daughter and sister.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her beloved husband, Carroll Richard Bridges Jr., and her infant grandson, Ian Matthew Bridges.
Carol is survived by her loving siblings: Steve Shafer, Connie Kingery (Alvin Kingery), and Scott Shafer (Jan Shafer). She will be deeply missed by her children: Richard Bridges (Maria Bridges), Daniel Bridges (Dawn Bridges), and Shannon Sidwell (Chris Sidwell). Her legacy continues through her cherished grandchildren: Jacob Bridges, Joshua Bridges, and Ethan Bridges (children of Richard and Maria); Sean Bridges (Keziah Stutzman), Sara Melsa (Daniel Melsa), Zach Benaitis, Ben Benaitis, and Addi Benaitis (children of Daniel and Dawn); Andrew Metzger, Kaleb Elzey, and Max Sidwell (children of Shannon and Chris).
Carol was a dedicated member of Northside Christian Church in Vandalia, IL, where her faith provided her with strength and community. She was known for her warm hospitality and exceptional culinary skills, especially her legendary Thanksgiving feasts, which brought her entire extended family together each year.
Above all, Carol was the epitome of a loving mother and grandmother. Her unwavering love for her family and her deep faith were the cornerstones of her life. She shared these gifts generously with everyone she knew, leaving a lasting impact on all who were fortunate enough to be a part of her life.
Visitation will be held from 9:00-11:00AM, Saturday, April 12, 2025, at Northside Christian Church, Vandalia. A funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM, following visitation at the church. Graveside Service and Interment will take place at 3:00PM, Saturday, April 12, 2025, in the Jewett Cemetery, Jewett, Cumberland County, IL.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Nourishing Greatness, a program in Vandalia providing weekend meals to our students who experience food insecurity.
Hohlt & File Funeral Home of Vandalia is in charge of arrangements, online condolences can be expressed at www.hohltandfilefh.com