The Florence community is mourning the loss of Eric Bridges, a longtime educator and coach at Florence Middle School.
Bridges passed away Tuesday at the age of 46. He taught computer science and coached football, baseball, and basketball for nearly two decades.
“It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Coach Eric Bridges,” a Thursday announcement by the Florence baseball program reads. “Coach Bridges spent almost 20 years impacting lives as a teacher and coach at Florence Middle School. He was more than a coach – he was a mentor, a leader, and a role model who dedicated countless hours to our athletes and community.”
“We are forever grateful for the impact he made on our program, our athletes, and our community. His legacy will live on in every player who puts on an Eagle uniform.”
When he wasn’t teaching or coaching, Bridges was an avid Mississippi State fan who some even referred to as “Hail State Eric.” He loved to spend time with his family, woodwork, and play video games.
“‘Hail State Eric’ was loved everywhere he would go. He was very charismatic,” a portion of his obituary reads. “He enjoyed woodworking, building things, and playing video games. But above all, he loved his family.”
Bridges is survived by his parents, his wife, and nine children. The family will welcome friends and extended family for visitation from 5 to 8 p.m. on Friday and from 9 to 11 a.m. on Saturday at First Baptist Church of Florence. The funeral service will take place Saturday at 11 a.m. with burial following at New Zion Baptist Church Cemetery in Braxton.
