Elma Doll Bridges

Elma Doll Bridges was born on April 22, 1941, to the union of Ceaser B. Bridges and Donah Elizabeth Smith Bridges in Walthall County, Mississippi. At an early age, she professed her faith in Christ and was baptized at New Home Holiness Church. She received her education through the Walthall County Public School System and graduated from Hope Vocational High School. After graduating, Elma relocated to New Orleans, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University at New Orleans (SUNO). God blessed Elma with two sons, Darryl Keith Bridges and Darnell Kent Bridges. She was employed by the City of New Orleans, working at the Milne Boys Home and The Youth Study Center as a juvenile counselor. After years of dedicated service, she retired in 2005. In 1967, Elma became a faithful member of Second Morning Star Missionary Baptist Church, where she served diligently as church secretary for 37 years. Her commitment, faithfulness, and service were a blessing to the church and its members. Elma later became the property owner of The Other Place Lounge. Known affectionately as “Doll,” she was a strong, independent boss lady—deeply rooted in faith, guided by purpose, and unwavering in her values. A Christian woman at heart, Elma carried herself with grace and strength, trusting God through every season of her life. Her faith was not just spoken; it was lived daily through her actions, decisions, and the way she treated others. Doll was a devoted advocate in her community, and many gravitated toward her and lovingly referred to her as “Mom.” She was the neighborhood mother and grandmother, providing unwavering love and support. She gave warm meals, financial assistance, emotional strength, encouragement, and physical care throughout her life. In 2024, Elma was honored and presented with an award at the 12th Ward Sneaker Ball for her outstanding contributions to the community. She was a pillar of the 12th Ward, served on the Neighborhood Watch Committee, and was treasurer of her social and pleasure club, The Triple SSS Club. Along with fellow members, Elma helped organize toy drives and school supply giveaways for children in the community. Elma Doll Bridges leaves behind a legacy of faith, service, strength, and love that will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. Elma Doll Bridges was preceded in death by her parents, Ceaser, Sr. and Donah Bridges; her life long loving companion Jasper Powell; her brothers, Otis Lee Bridges, Burlin Bridges, Ceaser Bridges, Jr., and Quinton D. Bridges; sister Allah Mae Lumpkin; her loving son Darnell K. Bridges; and her special life long friends Justine Lawrence; Elizabeth Square; Albertine Reed; and Mary Jones. She leaves to cherish her memory her sister, Irma Jean Lumpkin; her brother, Booker T. Bridges; her son, Darryl (Nina) Bridges; her 11 grandchildren Eric, Khristy, Darrieal, Darryl Jr., Brandon, Darisha, Darnika, Jacoby, Darnell Jr., Darrion and Narriel, her 18 great-grandchildren , and her god-child Danielle Patterson; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and friends. Relatives and friends of the family are invited to attend her Funeral Service at Second Morning Star Baptist Church, 2616 St. Andrews Street on Friday, January 9, 2026 at 10:00 am. Visitation will begin at 9:00 am. Interment: Providence Memorial Park Cemetery. Arrangements by D.W. Rhodes Funeral Home, 3933 Washington Avenue. Please visit www.rhodesfuneral.com to sign the guestbook.

Elma Doll Bridges

December 25, 2025