Delite was born on April 21, 1942 in Gadsden, AL to parents Happy and Ruth Bridges. She went to Auburn University in 1960 and transferred to UAB graduating with her associate’s degree in nursing in 1963. She would later go to Samford University where she received her Bachelor’s degree in Nursing in 1984. She began working at Baptist Memorial Hospital, now Gadsden Regional Medical Center, on January 01, 1963 and would remain there until her retirement on November 01, 2008. While she served in many positions during her tenure, she was instrumental in starting the Critical Care Units. The first unit consisted of 3-4 beds on the 4th floor of the hospital. During her leadership, there were eventually 3 critical care units, CCU, ICU, and SICU.
Delite mentored hundreds of nurses during her tenure at the hospital.
No matter what title she carried, her main goal was always excellent patient care.
Delite was a loving wife, sister, aunt, and friend. She is survived by her sister, Joy Bridges (Bill) Pevsner, Gadsden, her nieces, Stephanie Taylor (Rob) Bowley , Gadsden, and Ellen Elizabeth Bridges, New York, NY. Her great nieces, Taylor, Rachael, and Cameron Bowley, great nephew, Robby Bowley, all of Gadsden and her aunt, Grace Temple, Decatur, AL. Special friends, Marian Ayers, Mona Dempsey, Cathy Bottoms, and Janie Goodwin. Her special fur friends Patches and Adam
She is preceded in death by her late husband, best friend and soulmate of 38 years, Dr. Robert L. Cruit. Her brother, John Harold “Johnny” Bridges, Jr, and her parents John Harold “Happy” Bridges, Sr. and Alma Ruth Bridges.
Pallbearers will be Tony Armstrong, Brett Lavender, Oakley Patterson, Sidney Patterson, William McKinney, and Robby Bowley.
Honorary Pallbearers will be Dr. Adrian Chandler, Dr. Edward Thompson, Mike Armstrong, and Dr. Bryan McGwier.
Visitation will be at Collier Butler Funeral Home from 12:30 pm until 2:00pm on Thursday, September 13, 2018 with a graveside service following at 2:30 at Crestwood Memorial Cemetery. The Rev. Michael Goldsmith of the Episcopal Church of the Resurrection will officiate.
Collier-Butler in charge of arrangements.
Online condolences may be made at www.collier-buter.com.
