Greer – Dr. Byron Kent Bridges, 85, passed away July 3, 2016 at home surrounded by family. A native of Graham, son of the late John Charles and Rose Etta Petty Bridges, Kent graduated from Graham High School and the University of Texas.

A practicing dentist for over 50 years, he was a member of the American Dental Association, SC Dental Association and the Greenville County Dental Association serving as president 1982-83.

Kent had a servant’s heart, providing volunteer dental services to the public schools, Pendleton Place and during mission trips to Haiti and Moldova. He obtained patents on two dental instruments and worked to produce and market them. He was a U.S. Air Force veteran and a member of the MUMC Camack Sunday School Class.

Surviving are his wife of 62 years, Bette Ivey Bridges; three daughters, Miriam Pugliese of Dallas, Robin Bridges of Liberty and Melanie Krisitinik of Columbia; and six grandchildren, John, Timmy and Laurel Pugliese; and Katherine, Robert and Camille Kristinik.

A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday, July 30, at Memorial United Methodist Church. Visitation will be held after the service in the church social hall.

Memorials may be made to Memorial United Methodist Church, 201 N. Main St., Greer, SC 29650.

Online condolences may be made at thewoodmortuary.com.