Jody Ann Bridges

Jody Ann Bridges, age 73 of Gatesville, passed from this life Saturday, September 20, 2025. A memorial service will be held at 10 am Friday, October 10, 2025, at Harper-Talasek Funeral Home in Belton.

Jody was born on September 14, 1952, to Roman and Frances Panowicz in Loup City, Nebraska. She worked for many years at the VA Hospital as a CNA and later served as the kitchen manager at the Belton Senior Center. Known for her strong work ethic and caring heart, Jody always gave her best in everything she did.

She had a deep love for classic country and western music, especially the timeless voices of Conway Twitty and Loretta Lynn. Jody was also an avid college football fan, with a special place in her heart for the Nebraska Cornhuskers and the Texas Longhorns. If either team was playing, you could count on her tuning in - but if they played at the same time, Nebraska always came first. Born and raised in the Cornhusker State, Jody took great pride in cheering on her home team. Her love of the game extended to the local level as well; she rarely missed a Temple High School football game while her daughters were students and often continued attending even after they graduated. Jody cherished family gatherings, keeping them simple yet meaningful, and found her greatest joy in the company of her daughters and grandchildren. She loved the color yellow, and sunflowers were her favorite flower, fitting symbols of the warmth and light she brought into the lives of everyone around her.

Jody was preceded in death by brother, Patrick Panowicz; her parents, Roman and Frances Panowicz; and a husband, Gerald Blumberg.

She is survived by her husband, George Bridges; daughters, Ja-Neen Blumberg, Melanie Brummett and husband, James, and Aimee Gommert and husband, Ronald; brother, Rodney Panowicz and sister-in-law, Debbie Panowicz; seven grandsons, Joshua Boyd, Brian Gibson, Robert Brummett Jr., Mathew Brummett, Zachary Brummett, William Brummett, and Colby Gommert; fifteen great grandchildren; along with many nieces and nephews.

Jody will be remembered for her devotion to her family, her hardworking spirit, and the love and simplicity she carried through life. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her.