Carlton "Craig" Bridgers

July 15, 1959 – October 19, 2026

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:23

With heavy hearts, but with the blessed assurance of eternal life through Jesus Christ, we announce the passing of Carlton “Craig” Bridgers, who went home to be with the Lord on October 19, 2026, at the age of 67.

Craig was born on July 15, 1959, in Pikeville, Kentucky. Throughout his life, he demonstrated an unwavering faith in God, a deep love for His Word, and a passion for sharing the Gospel with everyone he encountered.

Craig devoted many years to studying biblical theology, ultimately earning his doctorate in Ministry and Christian Counseling. He was not simply a student of God's Word; he was a man who lived it. His greatest desire was to see lives transformed by the love, grace, and saving power of Jesus Christ.

With a heart for church planting and reaching the lost, Craig played a vital role in establishing numerous ministries and churches, including churches in other countries. One of his greatest accomplishments was planting The Crossing in Fort Pierce, Florida, where he faithfully served as senior pastor for 28 years. Through his leadership, preaching, and genuine love for people, countless lives were touched, families were strengthened, and hearts were led closer to Christ.

But Craig's ministry extended far beyond the walls of a church. He was known as the man you called when you needed help. Whether someone needed prayer, encouragement, guidance, or simply a helping hand, Craig was there. He never allowed someone's background, circumstances, or past to determine how much love or compassion they deserved. He believed in loving people the way Jesus did—without judgment, without conditions, and with a heart full of grace.

While Craig had an extraordinary passion for ministry, he also had a wonderful love for life. He enjoyed playing softball, golfing, boating, fishing, and pickleball. He loved spending time with his family and was especially known for his playful personality and the pranks he loved pulling on those closest to him. Behind his calling as a pastor was a man who loved to laugh, have fun, and create memories with the people he loved.

Above all, Craig treasured his family. He leaves behind his loving wife, Victoria Bridgers; his children, Richard Agantovich, Ellie Agantovich, Noah Athalis, George Athalis and a daughter; and his precious grandchildren, along with two other granddaughters. Each held a special place in his heart, and the love he poured into his family will remain a part of his legacy forever.

Craig's life was a beautiful testimony of what it means to be the hands and feet of Jesus. He didn't just preach about love—he demonstrated it. He didn't just speak about faith—he walked in it. And he didn't just teach others to serve—he spent his life serving.

Although our hearts ache in his absence, we find comfort in knowing that the God Craig so faithfully preached about is the very God who has now welcomed him home.

His voice may be silent here on earth, but the seeds of faith he planted, the lives he changed, the churches he helped establish, and the love he gave will continue to bear fruit for generations to come.

Well done, Craig. You fought the good fight, you finished the race, and you kept the faith.

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” — 2 Timothy 4:7

A Celebration of Life will be held at Aycock Funeral Home, 1504 Southeast Floresta Drive, Port St. Lucie, FL 34983, US, on November 7, 2026, from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm.

A Memorial Service will be held at Aycock Funeral Home, 1504 Southeast Floresta Drive, Port St. Lucie, FL 34983, US, on November 7, 2026, from 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, please make donation checks payable to Loving Care Child Development Center at 1207 S 27th Street, Fort Pierce, FL 34947, US.