Abadella Bridgewater was born in Louisiana on January 21, 1938, to Joseph "George" and Ethel Ward Bridgewater. As a child, Abadella was curious, happy, and very active. The house was full of love as George and Ethel raised 14 children, including seven boys from Ethel's first marriage and seven siblings from their own union. As a child, Abadella enjoyed singing, drawing, coloring, and following her siblings around. She had an affinity for babies and would often pinch their cheeks to see them smile. Her spirituality was important to her, and she enjoyed attending church services.

As an adult, Abadella traveled between California (to live with her sister, Lucinda Redwine) and Virginia (to live with her sister, Elma Lee). While in Virginia, she spent time with her sister, Audrey. At 68 years of age, Abadella moved to Triumph Residential Services and began developing a network of friends who became a second family to her. Her favorite activities included playing games with other residents, attending her adult day support program, and eating sweets. She was extremely fond of Kevin, a long-term Triumph staff member. She would gently tug at Kevin's beard to make him laugh. Her sister, Elma, would visit her and bring sweets, such as cakes and cupcakes, for all of her friends to share. She loved sweets so much and sometimes needed to be encouraged to share.

Abadella passed away on June 11, 2026, at the age of 88. She is survived by her sister, Elma Lee, her brother, Alexander Bridgewater, and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Abadella's life demonstrates that people with intellectual disabilities are capable of living long and fulfilling lives. Her family adored her. She will be truly missed. However, her family realizes that her memory is a true blessing.

Special Thanks: The family of Abadella Bridgewater thanks you for taking the time to remember Abadella and her contributions. She was precious and a source of love and light. Her life reminds us that everyone, no matter their limitations, has value and can be loving and kind. We will never forget your kindness. Thank you again for your support and care during this time.

The family would also like to extend a special thank-you to Lashanda Powell, Executive Director of Triumph Residential Services, Inc. Lashanda, your staff, along with the residents, created a caring and loving environment for Abadella. You were her second family. Thank you for treating her with dignity and respect. We are grateful that you were such a significant part of her life.

Finally, thank you to Mrs. Vida Crocker, who generously drove Abadella's sister, Elma, to the hospital so that she could visit Abadella every day. This was extremely important and brought joy to Abadella's last days. Vida, the family values your generosity.

Services will be held 1:00 P.M., Monday, June 22, 2026, in the Chapel of J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, the Rev. Dr. Jeremiah Tillman, eulogist. The interment to follow at Wilkerson Memorial Cemetery.

J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, (804) 732-8911, www.jmwilkersonsince1874.com. Watch the funeral services live online on our J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc. Facebook page or click here to view: https://vimeo.com/event/6010615?fl=so&fe=fs