Dr. James Donald "Don" Bridges

With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Dr. James Donald "Don" Bridges, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, friend, and physician, who died on the morning of Thursday, June 26, 2025 at the age of 74.

Born in Brevard, North Carolina, Don was the son of James Oliver and Elizabeth Allison Bridges. He is survived by his wife, Carole Schaefer Bridges; his former wife and mother of his two children, Sassene (Sassie) Bridges; daughter, Allison Bridges Robinson; granddaughter, Cheyenne Genevieve Robinson; sister, Margaret (Peggy) Bridges; and nephew, James Ryan Weld. He was predeceased by his son, William Christopher Bridges; sister, Barbara Sue Bridges; and brother, William Frank Bridges.

A 1969 graduate of Cocoa High School, Don attended the U.S. Naval Academy, where he joined the 7th Company and was selected by Admiral Hyman Rickover for the Navy's Nuclear Submarine Program. He earned a master's degree in nuclear chemistry from the University of Florida and served with distinction aboard the USS Batfish and USS Daniel Boone, earning the Navy Meritorious Service Medal and Submarine Deterrent Patrol Badge. Driven by a calling to medicine, Don later graduated at the top of his class from the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences (USUHS), receiving honors from President Ronald Reagan.

He completed his residency in Radiation Oncology and led the department at Bethesda Naval Hospital before retiring from the Navy as a Commander after 29 years of service. In civilian life, Don joined Associates in Radiation Medicine, becoming a respected leader in prostate cancer care. His compassion, expertise, and dedication impacted thousands of patients, many of whom remained in touch with him for years. Don will be remembered by all who knew him for his brilliance, integrity, and unwavering devotion to the care of others.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Johns Hopkins Hospital and the staff of the Leukemia and Stem Cell Transplant service, especially Dr. Mark Levis, for the exceptional care Don received. The family is deeply grateful for his expertise and dedication.

A memorial service will be held at a future date.

A graveside service with military honors will take place at a later date at Gillespie Evergreen Cemetery in Brevard, NC. Moore-Blanchard Funerals and Cremations of Brevard will assist the family with these arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (PO Box 22324, New York, NY 10087) or the Naval Submarine League (405 N. Henry Street, Alexandria, VA 22314)