Ronald "Ronnie" Reese Bridgette

Ronald Reese Bridgette passed away peacefully on October 7, 2024. Ronnie was born in Charleston, WV on July 1, 1950, to David “Whitey” and Sue (Radford) Bridgette. He was the oldest of three children. Ronnie spent most of his life residing in Cross Lanes with his wife of almost 56 years, Becky.

Whether you knew him as Ronald, Ronnie, Ronnie B, Ron, RB, or Papa Champo, he was a remarkable individual who touched the lives of many with his kind heart and unwavering loyalty. Ronnie was a

devoted Christian who lived his life with strong faith and dedication. He attended Cross Lanes Baptist Church and enjoyed time with his Bible Fellowship class weekly. Ron was always available with a listening ear and wise counsel to his loved ones. He was a great speaker who would share from his heart and give the best advice.

Known for his fierce spirit and tenacity, Ronnie never backed down from a challenge (or a fight) and always faced life head on. His determination and competitive nature were inspiring to those who knew him. Ronnie prioritized working out and staying physically fit. He loved sports and spent many years coaching youth football and baseball.

Ronnie will forever be a hero to his grandchildren whom he loved with his whole heart. The legend of Papa Champo will live on for family generations to come through his legacy of love, faith, loyalty, strength, courage, and passion. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, David and Sue Bridgette, his sister, Vicky Sue Bridgette, his father-in-law, Bob Harlow and sister-in-law, Debbie Bridgette. Those left to cherish his memory are his loving wife Rebecca (Harlow) Bridgette, his children Brian Bonsall and wife Jacquie (Georgia), Candi Duran and husband Steve (North Carolina), Travis Bridgette and wife Marsha (Georgia), Tara Phillips and husband Luke (of Charleston WV); his nine grandchildren, Caitlyn (Corey) Yesavage, Ryan (Danielle) Duran, Clay Bonsall, Katie Bonsall, Anna Phillips (fiancé Jackson), Kailey Bridgette, Kade Bridgette, Grace Phillips, Kenzie Bridgette and three (and counting) great grandchildren, Colton Steel Yesavage, Jack Ronald Duran, and Cannon James Yesavage. He is also survived by his brother, Eddie Bridgette, his mother-in-law, Vieva Harlow, sisters-in-law, Janice (Art) Standish, Linda (Gary) Basilo, Julie (Tim) McQuain, and many other loved family members and friends.

Ronnie spent the last few years at Braley Care Home in Hurricane. Our family cannot thank the staff at Braley enough for the wonderful care they provided to not only Ronnie, but also to our entire family. We would also like to thank his friend Steve Canfield who consistently visited Ronnie during his time at Braley. Words can never express our gratitude for you all.

A celebration of life service will be held at 1:00 P.M. Saturday, October 26, 2024, at Tyler Mountain Funeral Homes in Cross Lanes.

Visitation will be from 11 until time of service at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers please donate to St Jude’s Children’s Hospital (Ron’s favorite charity) or a dementia care/research program of your choice.

Online condolences can be sent to the family at www.tylermountainfuneralhome.com