Obituary of Dorothy Bridges

Dorothy Lueferrell Smith Bridges, age 92, of Nicholasville, KY, was reunited with her Savior and family in heaven January 31, 2024. Dorothy was born in Morgan County, AL, to George and Bertha Smith, on March 5, 1931. Dorothy met her husband, Russell Bridges, at Bearden High School in Knoxville, TN. She supported Russell through his education and as he served in ministry and various roles in higher educational Development. In his retirement, she and Russell volunteered at the Baptist Theological Seminary in Ruschlikon, Switzerland, and traveled extensively with family and friends. After relocating to the Lexington area, Russell and Dorothy were faithful members of Calvary Baptist Church. 

Dorothy’s greatest joy was raising her four children (also known as “Dot and her four dashes”) and caring for those she loved. In later years as Dorothy struggled with dementia, she would be known to ask visitors if everyone had eaten or needed anything to make them more comfortable. Dorothy will be remembered for her caring spirit, unintentional comedy, and the deep pride she took in her family.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Russell, daughter, Lisa Bridges Clare, granddaughter, Jessica Clare, and siblings (Ester Smith, Louise Brackett, and Wynnell Galyon). Dorothy is survived by her three sons, Philip Bridges of Bardstown, KY, Mark (Kim) Bridges of Georgetown, KY, Kent (Lana) Bridges of Nicholasville, KY, son-in-law, Walter Clare of Shelbyville. KY and grandchildren, Amy Bridges, Emily (Bryan) Seagraves, William Clare, Krista Clare, and Michael Clare.

The family will be receiving friends Sunday, February 11, from 2-5pm at Clark Legacy Center in Nicholasville, KY. In lieu of flowers, the family requests any gifts in her memory be made to Bluegrass Care Navigators.