Helen Ann (Prelog) Bridges

Helen was a light in the lives of everyone who knew her — a devoted mother, a beloved grandmother, a skilled nurse, and a woman who lived every day with a twinkle in her eye. Whether she was cheering someone up with a silly joke (often with her own unique take on the punch line), sharing one of her contagious laughs, or offering comfort with a gentle touch, she made the world a better place simply by being in it.

She had an unmatched joy for life and an even greater love for her family — especially her cherished grandchildren and great grandchildren. She was their biggest fan, greatest hug-giver, and frequent accomplice in shenanigans; and was always ready with a sweet treat or a game of Upwords (which she always won).

Born in Youngstown, Ohio in November 1941, the oldest of seven children, Helen attended nursing school right after high school. She married Edward Bridges, Jr. in 1962 and raised four children while continuing to work. Her career as a nurse was more than a job - it was a calling. She brought compassion, dedication, and grace to her work, touching countless lives with her care and attention. Helen and Ed moved from Ohio to Chattanooga, Tennessee in 1986, ultimately retiring there.

Helen was a grand creator – especially playing piano, sewing, experimenting with new recipes, and painting. Her paintings grace her children’s and grandchildren’s homes. She also returned to school later in life, earning her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from University of Tennessee at Chattanooga at age 56. Helen had a special place in her heart for animals, particularly her beloved dogs, who brought her so much companionship and joy in her later years. At one point, there were six members of her pack of adopted stray and shelter dogs.

She is predeceased by her loving husband, Edward B. Bridges Jr., her parents, Hazel Ann Anderson Prelog and James E. Prelog, Sr., her sisters-in-law Carol Prelog and Mary Prelog, and brother-in-law Mike Carson. She is survived by her siblings: Margie Benson, Nita (Bill) Barber, Rose Carson, James (Brenda) Prelog, Johnny Prelog (Heather Petrolla), and Mike Prelog and nieces and nephews.

She is also survived by her children; Pam (Ray) Janson, Brenda Bridges (Pat Mongoven), Gail (Mike) Jenkins, Eddie (Leah) Bridges; her grandchildren Mikel (Leslie), Tyler (Mollie), Candace (Jason), Chad (Savannah), Alec (Lisa), Steve (Julia), Wilson, Noah, Charlie, Eve, Maia, Caroline (Dalton); and great-grandchildren Max, Layton, Hudson, Samson, Huxley, Hailey, Helen, Peter, Aiden and Olivia, who will carry her memory forward with love, laughter, and many a game of Upwords in her honor.

Though the last years of her life were marked by Alzheimer’s, her feisty spirit never dimmed. The sparkle in her eye, the warmth of her laughter, and the love she radiated remained with her until the very end.

Special thanks to the caregivers at Signal Mountain Senior Living Memory Care, who made her last seven years residing there comfortable and bright; and Hospice of Chattanooga, especially Travis, Cel, Faedra, and Matt, who provided exemplary care and family support.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to McKamey Animal Center. Link is down below.

Visitation will be held at Chattanooga Funeral Home-North Chapel, located at 5401 Highway 153, Hixson, TN 37343, on January 16, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am. The funeral service will follow at the same location starting at 11:00 am.

Interment will take place at Hamilton Memorial Gardens, 5351 Highway 153, Hixson, TN 37343, on January 16, 2026.

Arrangements are under the care of the North Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory and Florist, 5401 Highway 153, Hixson. Please share your thoughts and memories at www.chattanooganorthchapel.com