Click here to watch the livestream of Barbara Bridges Funeral Service.

Surrounded by her family, Barbara Ann Medlin Bridges joined her Savior in Heaven on Sunday, April 12, 2026, at her home in Quitman, Texas. A devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and woman of steadfast faith, she was a shining example of Christ’s love. As a widow, she carried the memory of her beloved husband, Preston, with every step she took.

Barbara was born on October 13, 1939, in Gilmer, Texas, to W.L. “Buster” and Grace Harris Medlin, as the third of seven children. Because her father worked in the oil field, the family moved frequently, living in Gilmer, East Mountain, Union Grove, Talco, and finally Quitman, where Barbara attended her senior year of high school and graduated. For Barbara, moving to Quitman proved to be life-changing, as it was there she met the love of her life, Preston. They were married on October 31, 1958, and shared 60 years of marriage prior to his passing.

After graduating from Quitman High School, Barbara pursued interior decorating classes and real estate courses, and throughout the years attended many continuing education workshops and seminars related to her 24-year career as secretary to the Quitman Elementary School principal. While Preston was serving in the Army in Germany, Barbara worked for two years in the Comptroller’s Office at the Air Forces Europe Exchange Headquarters.

In 1973, they returned to Quitman, where Barbara continued her lifelong passion for serving the community she loved. Over the years, she was involved in numerous organizations, including the Quitman Pilot Club, Quitman Scenic Association, Quitman Greater Area Chamber of Commerce, City of Quitman Beautification Committee, Christmas Sharing, Quitman Booster Club, Wood County Aggie Moms, Quitman PTA, Friends of the Park, and the Gov. Jim Hogg City Park Board. However, the involvements most meaningful to her were those that allowed her to serve God through her church.

Barbara was active in the church choir, serving as both a soloist and member of a ladies’ trio. She also served on various committees, taught Sunday School and Vacation Bible School, participated in women’s groups, and faithfully greeted others alongside Preston in the church foyer.

Barbara was recognized by multiple organizations throughout the years and received numerous awards, including the Community Involvement Award from the Quitman Chamber of Commerce, the Wood County Farm Bureau Appreciation Award, Citizen of the Year, the Outstanding Community Service Award, and the Liberty Bell Award.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Preston Ray Bridges; her parents; and her brothers, Bobby Medlin, Jackie Medlin, and Billy Don Medlin.

Left to cherish her memory is her son, Rocky Bridges and wife Kristi; grandsons Colby Bridges and wife Consondra, and Kyle Bridges and wife Hannah; and her great-grandchildren, who made her cup runneth over with love: Naliana, Navia, Arya, Aliza, Riley, Gentry, and Beau. She is also survived by her sister, Judy Hebron and husband Bill; her brothers, Phil Medlin and wife Ann, and Danny Joe Medlin and wife Ann; along with many nieces, nephews, and extended family members who will treasure the time they shared with their beloved Aunt Barbara.

Livestreaming of the service will be available on lowegardner.com for those that are not able to attend and by clicking the following link:  https://www.hdezwebcast.com/show/barbara-bridges-service 

The family will receive friends during visitation on Thursday evening, April 16, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Lowe-Gardner Funerals & Cremations. A celebration of life will be held on Friday, April 17, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Faith Baptist Church in Quitman. Burial will follow at Bridges-Ingram Cemetery.