BBBTV12 Serving Anderson, Roane, and Morgan Counties
Buena “Betsy” Quillen Bridges, 70, passed away on August 12, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer.
There are some lives best measured not simply in years, but in the people they loved and the memories they leave behind. Betsy lived a life in color and love.
Her faith was at the center of her life,and she spent decades serving others through her church. For well over 30 years, Betsy shared her incredible gift of music as an organist and pianist during worship. She spent many years directing Vacation Bible School, Bible studies and finding countless other ways to serve.
Above all, Betsy loved her family with her whole heart, and time spent together brought her the greatest joy. Some of our sweetest memories are the simplest ones – Betsy at the piano, sometimes playing alongside her sister Teresa while the family gathered around; trips to the beach with her sisters; or simply being together as one big family.
Betsy was an avid crocheter and crafter. She loved sitting by the pool with a good book, playing the piano, watching Hallmark Christmas movies, and cheering on the Oak Ridge Wildcats on Friday nights and the Tennessee Vols on Saturdays.
Betsy leaves behind her children, Chris Atkinson (Lisa), Crystie Fox (Cliff), and Corrie Riggs (Daniel); her grandchildren Brady Atkinson, Cole Fox, Donovan Tafil, and Preston Atkinson, who held an especially precious place in her heart and was truly her pride an joy; her sisters, Teresa Petty and Karen Riddle (Mike); as well as beloved extended family and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Gene Quillen and Betty Drown; her sister, Rowan Murray; her husband Charles “Bobby” Bridges; and her grandson, Grayson Atkinson. What a union to be reunited with them all!
Betsy knew where she was going, and the faith she spent a lifetime sharing with others carried her through the end of her own journey. Cancer was never going to define her. Her life was defined by faith, family, music, service and love.
Celebration of Life
A Celebration of Life honoring Betsy will be held Sunday, August 23, 2026, at Grace Baptist Church – Oak Ridge, 130 Providence Road, Oak Ridge, Tennessee.
