Sara Hopper Bridges, 88

Sara Hopper Bridges, 88, of Ellenboro, died Sunday, June 4, 2023.

She was the widow of Eugene Bridges and a daughter of the late Gardie Hopper and Sallie Smith Hopper. She was also preceded in death by her siblings: Graham, Roy, L.G., Austin, Eula(Ginny), Bill, Ernest and Clyde Hopper, Estelle Grigg and Hannah Padgett.

Born the last child of eleven children to Gardie and Sallie Hopper, sharecroppers in the Patterson Springs area of Cleveland County NC. She spent her childhood as many kids of the depression area, toiling in the fields. In the 1950s she moved to Shelby NC and enjoyed life in the city as a teenager.

Sometime in the mid 1950s she met Eugene (Gene) Bridges at a roller skating rink in Rutherford County. The two later married, moving to Ellenboro NC, and had two sons, Zane and David.

Sara was a long time member of the Oak Grove Methodist Church in Ellenboro where she was active until recent health issues. She was renowned there for her participation in church functions and her world famous (well, at least locally) apple fried pies and okra.

Sara left a lasting impression on all those she met, with her direct responses, but caring heart. She was the consummate caregiver and could always be found caring for those sick or in need. Or comforting family members and working behind the scenes in times of sorrow.

She loved fishing, trips to the beach, NASCAR before it became boring, and most of all family and friends.

She leaves a lasting legacy and will remain in the hearts and minds of many people.