Joe F. Bridges, age 79, of Wildwood, FL died at the HCA Hospital Ocala on August 24, 2024.  He was born at his family home in Arcola, MO on March 23, 1945. Joe is preceded in death by his parents, Charley and Floy Bridges; his older brother, Charles E. Bridges and sister-in-law, Anita Bridges.

Joe worked as a Firefighter/Paramedic for the City of Liberty, MO for 31 years, where he met and married the love of his life, Angie (Jacoby) Bridges. Joe and Angie were married for 43 wonderful years. They have enjoyed raising kids, traveling in their RV, cruising around the world, going to the lake and visiting the ocean as often as possible. Joe is survived by his wife Angie, three children: Mike Bridges of Liberty, MO; Missy Bridges of Kansas City, MO; Jeramy (Suzanne) Jacoby of Grand Rapids, MI; his three grandchildren Christian, Olivia, and Brady; his two nephews Chris (Federica) Bridges and Mitch (Amy) Bridges, two great nephews and two great nieces.

He also leaves behind a great many brothers from the Fire & Police Departments at Liberty, MO.

He will be greatly missed.

"Once you have a firefighter in your family, your family and the families from his crew become one big extended family" – Denis Leary

"Time to come home dear brother, Your tour of duty through.  You've given as much as anyone could be expected to do.  Just a few steps further, the smoke will start to clear. Others here will guide you.  You have nothing to fear.  You have not failed your brothers; you clearly gave it all.  And through your selfless actions, others will hear the call. So, take your place of honor among those who have gone before and know you will be remembered for now and evermore." – Robert Longly