Melvin Bridgewater

Melvin Pound Bridgewater, 88, of Tipton went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, December 31, 2019. Melvin was born in Scottsburg, IN on April 29, 1931 to his parents, Marvin Frederick Bridgewater and Lola Belle (Pound) Bridgewater.

Melvin graduated from Scottsburg High School in 1949. He then went on to serve in the United States Navy from 1950-1954, where he was part of the flight crew. Melvin married Clara Kathleen Sellers, and the two of them had three beautiful children together. Melvin married Virginia (Knight) Furnish-Bridgewater on October 30, 1999, and she preceded him in death on May 28, 2014.

Over the years, it’s safe to say Melvin was known for his strong work ethic. His interest in Agriculture, led him to jobs in sales at Adler Seeds, Northrup King and John Deere. Melvin had a love for farming and an even bigger love for horses. Palomino Quarter Horses were his absolute favorite. With Melvin‘s active spirit, he never really retired…he stayed busy farming and hauled horse trailers to almost every state in the country.

When Melvin wasn’t working, he took part in many clubs and organizations (some of which he served more than 50 years active membership): Elks, Moose, Eastern Star, Royal Order of Jesters (Shriners), American Quarter Horse Assoc., IN Quarter Horse Assoc., Tipton County Shrine Club, American Legion Post 46, Austin Lodge #128 Tipton, Scottish Right Shriner, and the Murat Horse Patrol which enabled Melvin the honor of riding in the Orange Bowl and Rose Bowl parades. Melvin’s most recent honor was to take part in an honor flight with his grandson, Kory.  

Melvin was a member at East Union Christian Church, and his faith was important to him. His family was also very important to him. He enjoyed taking the family trail riding in the summer at Brown County, or going snowmobiling in the winter. He loved a good game of cards, Skip-bo, or dominos. At meal time Melvin would be the one asking for onions and spicy food. After meal time, you might find him watching a John Wayne movie.

Melvin was extremely social and was simply an all around good guy! He could truly talk to anyone about anything! He never knew a stranger and had a knack for making others feel comfortable. If he met you once, he knew your name. Melvin could often be found laughing, joking and teasing. His fun, energetic spirit drew others to him. In a fast world, he went against the grain and took the time to get to know people, making them feel valued, cared for and loved. The world needs more men like Melvin Bridgewater! He will be so greatly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him!

Those left to carry on Melvin’s legacy of love are his children, Kimala Bridgewater, of Tipton, Kirk Bridgewater, of Palm Springs, CA, and Kristi (David) “Scott” Overly, of Sharpsville; grandchildren, Kory Overly and Dylan Overly; nephew, Randy Bridgewater; niece, Marcia Bode; lifelong friends, Bill & Claira Ayers; and special companion, Shirley Moore.

Melvin was preceded in death by his parents, Marvin & Lola Belle (Pound) Bridgewater; wife, Virginia Bridgewater; and twin brother, Marvin Bridgewater.

A celebration of life service will be held for Melvin at 7:00pm, on January 27, 2020 at East Union Christian Church, located at 1711 E. 296th St., in Atlanta, with Pastor Mark Knapp officiating. The service will be led with an Eastern Star & Masonic Ceremony, beginning promptly at 6:30pm.  Visitation for family and friends will be held prior to service from 4:00pm – 7:00pm at the church.

A big thank you is extended to Wellbrooke of Kokomo for the exceptional care that was given to Melvin. During his stay, the amazing staff treated him like family. Another big thank you to extended family and friends for all the love, support and encouragement you have so freely given during this difficult time. And finally, a special thank you to Frosty Featherstone…your loyal commitment to friendship over the years has never gone unnoticed!

Arrangements have been entrusted to Taylor & Cowan Funeral Home, Tipton, IN. Please feel free to leave an online condolence or share a special memory of Melvin with his family on his tribute wall.

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