George Kenneth Bridgewater departed this life on March 19, 2024.

He was born December 17, 1944.  He was the only child born to Elder William Scott and Ruth Ann (Williamson) Bridgewater.  He spent his youth in Sycamore and young adult years.  George attended Sycamore schools all 12 years.  In high school, he was very active in sports.  He played baseball, football and ran track. He was a standout in football and was a part of the Little 8 Conference, where Sycamore High School went undefeated.  While in his high school years, he sang in the choir as well.

Shortly after high school George enlisted in the U.S. Air Force.  He served his time as an Inventory Management Specialist.  Some of the assignment locations were in Ohio, Michigan, New Jersey and Canada.  While in the military, George was sent off to the Vietnam War.  There he was a gunner on the B52 airplanes.  Through God's care, he was able to return home honorably and unharmed.

Post war and service George attended Kishwaukee College.  He graduated with his degree in Information Technology.  He worked many years for AT&T in data/lab testing for products developed by the company.  After retirement, he went on to work at Kishwaukee College as well as the Sycamore School District.

On November 2, 1969 George married Mother Thelma Sandra (Lowe) Bridgewater.  To that union two children were born.  Gregory Scott Bridgewater (deceased) and Meredith Lorraine Bridgewater.  He enjoyed spending his time with his wife and kids.  Weekends were spent out on long car rides, eating out, shopping and scoping out fancy neighborhoods.  If the Bridgewater's weren't doing that, they were traveling to various states for leisure, church or going to his children's vast amount of activities.

He was a member of the Israel of God's Church, W.H.A. all his life.  From 1972-2011 he served as a member of the General Trustee Board.  He also served as the church treasurer, and was a member of the local and national church choirs. Over several years, George was involved in his local community.  He served on one of Sycamore's City Council Boards and also was active in the Sycamore School District while both of his children attended school.

At home you could find George planting/harvesting his garden, picking apples, tending to the chores around the house, entertaining company or watching sports and movies.

George is preceded in death by his wife Thelma Sandra; his son Gregory; his parents Elder William Scott Bridgewater and Ruth Ann Bridgewater.

He leaves behind to cherish his memory his daughter Meredith and many other nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family and friends.

His visitation will be on Friday, March 29th from 5:00-7:00 PM at the Butala Funeral Home, 1405 DeKalb Ave., Sycamore, IL.  And from 10:00-11:00 AM on Saturday at the Israel of God's Church, W.H.A.

His funeral service will begin at 11:00 AM on Saturday, March 30th at the Israel of God's Church, W.H.A., 248 North Ave., Sycamore, IL., with Bishop Ronald C. Henton officiating.  Burial will be at the Elmwood Cemetery, with military rites recited.