VERONA ISLAND
Iris Arlene (Gallison) Bridges died peacefully in her Verona Island home, surrounded by her loving family, friends and community, in the early morning of March 22, 2019.
Iris was born in Corrina to Max L. Gallison and Ethel “Marion” Bragg on June 3, 1935. Their family, including her brother, Max “Tunny” Gallison Jr., moved frequently before rooting themselves on Blanket Lane in Prospect. While living there, young Iris met a sweet girl named Marilyn Brown and they remained lifelong friends. Marilyn was dating Edward Bridges and Iris was soon introduced to her future husband.
Zimri Robert Bridges married Iris on Sept. 12, 1953, in Bucksport with the Rev. Charles T. Brown officiating their union. The newlyweds saved, then built their home on the west side of Verona Island, where they raised their three children. Iris started her married life as a mother and homemaker until her children were all in school. In 1967, she stared taking care of various elders in their Verona Island homes. She also worked at Evan’s Shoe Factory.
In the early ’80s, Iris went back to school along with her sisters-in-law and best friends, Pat Bridges and Linda Bridges. They became certified nurse’s aides and worked together for many years at Penobscot Nursing Home.
Even though she worked outside the home, Iris continued to take pride in providing an inviting, comfortable, loving place for family and friends to drop in for fellowship, a cup of coffee and a slice of whatever she had baked that day (her pecan pie and lemon squares were the top favorites). She spent many hours crafting. She found great joy in making mittens, dollies, stuffed toys, pins, embroidery pictures and clothes for her many friends and extended family. Her life was enriched by all who passed through her doors. She was full of fun and laughter and could find the humor in any situation. She especially enjoyed watching all her grandchildren, nieces, nephews and children of our community grow up around her. The kids all knew Aunt Iris was good for a piece of candy or stick of gum anytime!
Iris is survived by her three children, six grandchildren and five great-grandchildren along with her many sisters and brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews and cousins.
Holly Simpson, husband, Micheal, grandsons Nicholas and Benjamin, granddaughter Heidi Veilleux, husband, Trevor, and great-granddaughter, Paisley.
Leroy Bridges, wife Donna, granddaughter Danielle Cole, husband, Rory, great-granddaughters Maddison and Makayla; granddaughter Jessica McDonald, husband Adam, great-grandsons Reese and Jordan. Pauline Bridges and grandson, Adam Z. Arbo-Bridges.
At Iris’s request, there will be no funeral, viewing or service at this time. There will be a simple graveside service later in the year. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to any charily that would benefit the elderly or charity of your choice. Arrangements are under the care of Mitchell-Tweedie Funeral Home and Cremation Services Bucksport. (mitchelltweedie-young.com)