Leo Bridgeford

(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

Leo Russell Bridgeford Jr (Mr. Leo) April 5, 1955 – January 29, 2025

Leo Russell Bridgeford Jr. passed away peacefully, in his home surrounded by family on Wednesday, January 29, 2025. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, Leo’s life was a testament to hard work, artistry, and unwavering faith.

Born on April 5, 1955, in San Diego, California, Leo was the beloved son of the late Leo Bridgeford Sr. and Ramona Bridgeford. He was a cherished brother to Robert Bridgeford and the late Brenda Lindo. He shared a beautiful life with his wife, Laura Bridgeford, building a family filled with love, warmth, and enduring bonds.

A man of many talents, Leo was a master tradesman whose career spanned shipbuilding for the U.S. Department of Defense, metalwork, carpentry, plumbing, and electrical work. His dedication to craftsmanship was evident in every project he touched, and his legacy of skill and perseverance lives on in those he mentored. After years of dedicated service, he retired from the Seneca R7 School District, where his positive impact, through his passion for the Arts, will continue to be felt.

Beyond his work, Leo had a passion for the arts. He found joy in painting, drawing, and music—his rich voice, a gift that touched and inspired the hearts of many. Whether leading worship for his family at Harmony Heights Baptist Church, casting a fishing line into the water, or building something with his hands, he embraced life with quiet strength and perseverance. His faith was his guiding light, and his love for the Lord shone through his discipleship, kindness, and generosity.

Leo’s greatest pride and joy was his family. He was a devoted father to Leo Bridgeford III and Alea Bridgeford-Suarez, Joel Wilkerson, Bryan Wilkerson, and Jessica Frazier, father-in-law to Aziel Suarez, Cong Luo, Molly Wilkerson and the late Matt Frazier, a beloved grandfather to Jenae Suarez-Catbagan, OJ Catbagan, Aziel J. Suarez, Javen Suarez, Nyah Suarez-May, Joshua May, Leo Bridgeford IV, Henry Bridgeford, Aubrey Frazier, Matthew Frazier, and Emma Frazier and a doting great-grandfather to Mar, Kaia and Juniper. His love for his family was boundless, and he cherished every moment spent with them.

Leo Bridgeford Jr. leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and craftsmanship. His presence will be deeply missed, but his spirit will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A family held celebration of Leo’s life will be held at Harmony Heights Baptist Church on Sunday, February 2, 2025, at 1:30 pm, to honor the incredible man he was. May he rest in eternal peace, embraced by the love of his Savior Jesus Christ.

Romans 11:12:1 KJV I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.