Princeville icon and former mayor James Edward Bridgers dies at 101

Bridgers' many accomplishments include being instrumental in building the first dike in Princeville to prevent flooding, getting the first streets paved and bring a water system to the town.

"He initiated and accomplished so many things," said Mayor Pro Tem Linda Joyner. "Mr. Bridgers was someone who went out and made things happen for Princeville. He was always the go-to person when we needed professional knowledge and expertise."

Born in 1919, Bridgers graduated from the Tarboro Colored School in 1938 and attended Hampton University, then known as Hampton Institute, as well as the Artist Barber School in Wilson.  

Bridgers was loyal to the town of Princeville up until his death. He served two terms as the town's mayor and served on the town commission board for 20 years. He was also a businessman who invested in Princeville both privately and commercially.

"Up until recently, he was actively engaged," said Town Manager Dr. Glenda Knight, adding that he served as a mentor for current leaders. "It's a very sad time for the town of Princeville. Mr. Bridges serves as an asset for the entire community and we lost a giant icon." 

The town plans to rename a portion of the street Bridgers lived on, 3rd Street, to J.E. Bridgers Lane. The Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing on the renaming on Feb. 9.

"He has passed the baton, and we will continue to utilize the resources and knowledge he shared to continue his legacy," said Knight.