Frances Earle Bridgman, beloved wife of the late Wilder Kay Bridgman, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, at the age of 91, in Greenville, South Carolina.
Frances grew up in Centenary, South Carolina, where she first met her high school sweetheart and love of her life, Wilder. They embarked on a wonderful journey together, celebrating 68 years of marriage filled with love, laughter, and unwavering support for each other and their family.
After high school, she graduated from Coker College in Hartsville and soon began a 30-year career as a high school English teacher. Frances had a deep passion for teaching and undoubtedly impacted the lives of many young adults.
Frances was the true example of a loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and great-great-grandmother. She loved spending her time with family. She was known to all as a selfless person, always putting her family and others first. Frances found joy in gardening and nurturing plants, just as she had nurtured her beloved family.
She is survived by her children, Cathy Foloky, Mark Bridgman (Corinne), and Mitchell Bridgman; grandchildren, Jason Smith, Mandi Porcoro, Morgan Bridgman, and Jesse Bridgman (Anna); great-grandchildren, Kalie Porcoro, Nathan Porcoro, Kaleb Porcoro, Jordan Porcoro, Hugo Bridgman, and Louisa Bridgman; and a great-great-granddaughter, Amaya Farr.
In addition to her loving husband, she was preceded in death by her parents, Jesse Gibson Rogers and Rosa Richardson Rogers; brother, Robert “Bobby” Rogers; sister, Eleanor “Amy” Turner; son, Michael Bridgman; granddaughter, Claire Bridgman; son-in-law, James “Jim” Foloky; grandson-in-law, Nicholas “Nick” Bachhuber; and great-grandson Braydan Porcoro.
She leaves behind a legacy of faith, kindness, and loyalty that will be treasured by all who knew her.
Private services will be held at a later date.
Memorials may be made in honor of Frances to the American Heart Association at www.heart.org.
In our hearts, Frances will forever remain – a testament to a well-lived life, filled with love and dedication to her family and friends.