Junior had a great impact on me personally. Something that stuck with me, that I shared with Ryan, was from back at the old building on Stanley Gault, when the company was a little smaller. There were some occasions that I came to Junior upset about situations and how I was at a real crossroad on how to deal with them. Every time, the first thing he would do, would be to say something in his cool, calm voice that immediately got my pulse to slow down. Then, we would have a short discussion. He never told me specifically what I needed to do, but he just assured me that he believed in me, and knew I could handle it. He said the “right thing” will present itself and I’ll know it when I see it.
That really had an impact on me.
When both of my boys were seniors in high school and I had to write retreat letters to them. I made a point to let them both know his simple advice. There will be challenges in your life, but if you always focus on doing the right thing, you can’t go wrong.
~ Shawn Kemper
During Lupus Awareness Month, our office united to show support for our fellow co-workers living with lupus. We invited everyone to wear any shade of purple to show solidarity and raise awareness. When Mr. B mentioned he didn’t have on purple but still wanted to participate, Ms. Marilyn and I quickly grabbed some paper, cut out a heart, and colored it purple. I pinned it to his shirt, and with a smile he said, “That’ll do it!”
We all shared a laugh and took a group photo together. It was such a simple yet powerful moment of unity and care. Mr. B was always humble, always supportive—no matter the occasion. That day reminded me that support doesn’t have to be grand; sometimes it’s the smallest gestures that mean the most.
Chan Caggins
My first time meeting Junior was in 2003 (I think) at the Wendy’s in Shepherdsville, KY. I had been with the company less than a year at that point. I was working a couple of days a week while going to school. My primary job at the store at that time was to run the grill. That is what I was doing the day that Junior visited our store.
I knew that our owner played in the NBA, and according to Lois Johnson, he was a really good man, so I was nervous and anxious to meet him. I think we received early warning that he was on his way, so we were all on high alert. At some point during his visit, he joined the team by making the sandwiches for the carryout window. My job was to cook the burgers and deliver them to the sandwich makers. Junior called for a “single” and I nervously delivered it to the bun on the sandwich he was dressing. I was kindly told that it was “chili meat”, which meant I needed to bring him a new burger 😊 (Any burger that was slightly burnt or broken was to be used in chili, and not on sandwiches). My pride was damaged, but I learned early on how important customer satisfaction and doing the job right was to Junior.
~ Garrett Crump
It was Great to Meet Junior Bridgeman during his visit to the Peoria facility !
Jeffrey Wheeler
The first time I came face to face with Junior was 1998 in a drive-thru at 12th and Broadway. I had gone to Wendy’s to pick up lunch for my warehouse staff. As soon as I got back my warehouse manager said “Did you see Junior?” I told him I did not know a Junior and he proceeded to tell me all about his time at the University of Louisville, Pro basketball history and then the businessman. I did not follow sports at the time, so all this was news to me. The rest of the day I was curious. Who was this person of such accomplishment serving the people through a Drive-thru line? How did he have time for that?
Life continues, I never forgot the servant leadership of Junior. I had not seen him in years, but always found myself drawn to leaders that got in the weeds and understood that there is no task to big or too small. I was invited to a party in the Spring of 2015 and Junior and Doris we there. From this point and time, I knew there was something special about Junior and the Bridgeman Family. They moved in Faith and Stood on Business. They did not seek approval from others, they leaned on their faith for clarity.
In 2022 I started a new position with BRH. From the beginning Junior and the Bridgeman family welcomed me like family. I had never worked in a place like Manna/BRH. We had a prayer room, Chef Randy making magic in the kitchen and incredible Team/Leadership. I loved how Junior made time for people. There were days I knew he did not have 2 seconds to give, yet he would make 10 minutes to listen to me.
I wanted to share a life lesson I learned from Junior. I had the opportunity to hear Junior speak at the Louisville Football stadium. He spoke of a trip to China and how he learned about a culture that made 100 year plans for the future. He spoke about service and how to move through life not working for yourself, but others. I have been trying to understand the 100 year plan ever since. At church last Sunday, Dave Stone made a statement and it all became clear. It is our mission to “Plant Trees That We Will Never Know The Shade”.
I know Junior is in Heaven surrounded by friends and family.
Godspeed Junior. Thank you for all the memories and life lessons. I am Grateful.
Sincerely,
Aaron Mueller
“Very sad about the passing on y’alls owner. Mr. Junior was an inspiration to me. I never met him but the legacy and his story is unreal and I appreciate as well as many other folks that look like me. I mourn the loss and will communicate all the great things he did. “
~ Gene Williams
Senior Manager – Local Fountain, The Coca-Cola Company
I only briefly talked to Junior once, while seated next to him at the Pyramidion one year, but his values and his approachability were evident in everything he did. The day of my interview, I was seated in the lobby and a group of people walked through. They seemed important but were friendly. When called back for my interview, I was asked "Did you see the owner of our company? You're so lucky he was here today and you got to see him!" The same excitement was on the faces of many people in the office. I thought, wow, you never hear about people being excited to see the owner of their company. Typically you get grumbles about frustrations or a cold distant respect. But everyone I ever talked to who had met Junior always spoke of him so warmly, so positively. That moment helped me confirm that I wanted to work for Heartland Coca-Cola and was a reason I have now stayed for 6+ years. To see an owner of a company be so concerned about their employees was so refreshing. It is so evident that Junior was not only a very intelligent businessman, but he legitimately valued and trusted the contribution of his employees in carrying out his vision. He led with his values, and he inspired us all to do the same. He is greatly missed by so many, and I am thankful I got to meet him and be a part of his company.
Respectfully,
Morgan Strauss
I was deeply saddened to hear about Junior's passing. He was an incredible leader who inspired so many of us. His golden rule of leading with kindness, empathy and fairness will stay with me, and I will always try to live by it in my own life. My thoughts are with everyone who knew him during this difficult time.
"Do unto others as you would have them do unto you"
~ Tina Youker
When I met Junior for the first time over coffee in 2018, I was struck by how many people stopped to say hello. Each person received his undivided attention—a warm smile, a kind word, or a little joke. It wasn’t performative; it was genuine. Junior had a way of making everyone feel seen and valued, no matter who they were. At the time, I was the CEO of Papa John’s, navigating the brand through its most turbulent period in history and his calm demeanor and thoughtful questions helped me see beyond the chaos. He didn’t offer quick fixes, he asked simple but profound questions. Although it wasn’t his intent, our time together shaped the future of Papa John’s, teaching me to lead with humility, focus on values, and stay grounded even in the storm.
Five years later, in 2023, fate brought us together again. During lunch, the same thing happened—a man approached our table, someone Junior hadn’t seen in years. Junior couldn’t recall his name, but instead of brushing it off, he spent the next 15 minutes texting friends to jog his memory. After our lunch, he sought the man out to reconnect and share a story from their past. It was a small act, but it spoke volumes about who Junior was.
That was Junior Bridgeman—a man who cared deeply about every person he interacted with, no matter the situation. His humility, kindness, and attention to others were a true reflection of his character. He didn’t just lead with his mind; he led with his heart. And that’s what made him one of a kind. His influence on me at Papa John’s and beyond was immeasurable, a reminder that true leadership is about serving others and staying true to your values. Junior’s passing is a profound loss, but his legacy of grace, integrity, and quiet strength will live on in the countless lives he touched, including mine.
~Steve Richie
Working for a company owned by Junior Bridgeman has truly been a full-circle moment for my life. Being there for his final moments will live with me forever. Although I did not know Junior well – he is someone who I have learned from and have great admiration for.
Growing up, the most influential person in my life was my step-grandmother, Dr. Allie Corbin Hixson, who entered my life when I was 7. Allie spent her life breaking down barriers and fighting for equality. She is believed to be one of the first women to receive a PhD from the University of Louisville. After her career, she devoted her time to advocating for the ratification of the Equal Rights Amendment and focused on achieving workplace equality for women. My son, Max Corbin, was named after Allie, who passed when I was 19. I attribute much of my grit, persistence, and success to the lessons she taught me and the profound influence she had on my life. She has been honored as a Kentucky Woman Remembered, and her picture hangs in the rotunda of the state capitol.
In the summer of 2021, I was informed that my company, Hallrich Incorporated, was potentially being acquired by Bluegrass Restaurant Holdings. I was called to a conference room in a hotel in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, to meet with the potential new owners and leadership team. I was told the name of the potential new owner was Junior Bridgeman—someone I wasn’t familiar with. I called my family, concerned about my future due to the acquisition. My stepfather immediately rejoiced and began telling me all about Junior Bridgeman, the athlete he had cheered for as a U of L basketball fanatic. He also mentioned that Junior was a large presence in Louisville and that this could be a huge opportunity.
Over the last three years, since BRH purchased our company, I’ve had the pleasure of learning about Junior Bridgeman, the man. I can’t help but think how proud my grandmother would be to know that I had the opportunity to work for someone who so deeply shared her passion for equality, family, and giving back. As a little girl, I traveled to Louisville multiple times a year to see my family and spend time with my grandmother. Now, I travel there to serve in my role at BRH.
This past week, I had the great privilege of being in Junior’s presence during his final moments. To his children, I hope you know that the last things he spoke of were you. He spoke of you with such pride. He also spoke about the importance of giving. This seems so fitting, given what I’ve learned about the great man and leader that Junior was. Strangely, we lost Grandma Allie to her battle with heart disease, and I have often regretted not being there for her final moments.
I am truly grateful for the opportunity to have worked for your father. It is something I will proudly carry with me for the rest of my career. I am so deeply sorry for your loss.
~ posted anonymously
I remember Junior as “The Stranger Who Stopped To Say Hi.” During a hectic time in Florida, while completing the last territory transitions for CCR, a tall gentleman approached my desk, greeted me, and inquired about my day. His kind words brightened my day. Maya Angelou's words, “but people will never forget how you made them feel,” describe Junior Bridgeman. I always remember the kindness shown. Thank you for making us feel valued and exemplifying godly servitude and compassionate leadership. Sending prayers of comfort and strength to the Bridgeman family. Junior's legacy touched many lives.
Janice McDonald
I have never worked for a company that values its employees more than Heartland Coca-Cola and that is attributed to Junior Bridgeman. I only had the privilege of meeting him a few times, but he was so humble and kind. You would never know of his wealth and status. I said “Mr. Bridgeman…” he would immediately correct me and say “Please, call me Junior.” Generous and compassionate, his faith shined brightly. He led by example. As Christians, we are called to be the hands and feet of Jesus. I can only imagine the moment Junior heard our Mighty God say “Well done, good and faithful servant!”
Michelle Bailey
During my first year, I was tasked with tracking assets—laptops, monitors, and other equipment—for IT, to ensure everything was properly recorded. I had spoken to most people in the office, but for some reason, Junior made me nervous. It’s a bit embarrassing to admit, considering he was the most approachable person I’d ever met. I even remember messaging Bryce, telling him how nervous I was about going into Junior’s office, especially with him working so quietly.
But Junior immediately put all my worries to rest. He welcomed me in, making it clear that I could take my time with whatever I needed. He asked how I was doing, and when I answered that I was fine, I returned the question. He simply replied, “I’m just happy to be here another day.” His positive outlook, coupled with his kind words about the IT department's work, made a lasting impression on me.
Our interaction lasted barely two minutes, yet when I left his office, I thought, "Surely, he won’t remember me. I’m just someone slapping stickers on work equipment." However, the next time we saw each other, Junior greeted me by name and asked how my day was going. It became clear that he genuinely cared about the people around him.
Junior had this incredible ability to make you feel important, to make you feel like you mattered. And I know I’m not alone in this feeling. His impact on me—and on so many others—will continue to inspire everything I do, both at work and in life.
~ Justin Vales
If ever there was a "real life" super-hero, it was JB. His power was seeing the good in people and pushing them to be better - for themselves. That ability to show that he really cared and "saw" people for who they are, not what they could do for him, instilled a fierce loyalty in all of us who have worked for him and with him.
His humility is one of the traits that influenced me the most. He did not care about fame or recognition. He simply wanted to help people. He always stood for what he believed was right, which made it easy to do that while working with him.
Walking through the halls of our offices, thinking about him this morning, one word came to mind: Presence. He had such an air of tranquility. I could always tell when he was near, even before seeing him. His quiet strength permeated a room and gave those around him a sense of calm.
On a personal level, Junior's belief and trust in me as a leader within his organization helped me trust my own instincts in fulfilling that role. In the 16+ years I have worked with him, he taught me the importance of decisiveness, directness, and empathy in dealing with people. He was always a phone call, text message, or a few steps away. While I hated to "bother him," he never made me feel like I was wasting his time or he was in a rush to get out of our conversation. There was no problem I could not bring to him and trust that he would help me figure it out.
I feel this loss on a deeper level than I can express, which makes me so heartbroken for Doris, Eden, Ryan, Justin and the rest of his family, because I cannot imagine their immense pain and devastation. Our hearts are with you now and holding you close. Sending love and light to all who knew and loved him.
~Amy Hoover
One thing that was so special to me about Junior was that when you passed him in the hallway instead of just a wave, he would stop and take the time to say hi and see how I was doing. It was such a small thing but one of the small ways he showed he cared about his people.
~”Bee” Northup
Junior was a true servant leader. I had the pleasure of accompanying him on a tour of KU Health Systems this fall and he delivered the commencement speech to the 2025 Class of GED graduates. His speech was more conversational yet interjected calls to actions to the graduates in a very deliberate yet convincing manner. I happened to video the speech and I have referenced it several times since as a resource on how to be a better leader. He will be truly missed however I know Justin will be able to take Juniors vision and mission and make Heartland even better then it is today.
Kim Lewis Director, FSOP Heartland Coca-Cola Bottling Co.
My favorite memory of Junior was right after the Bridgeman Family purchased Heartland Coca-Cola he was traveling to all of the facilities. I had the Honor of meeting him for the first time in Charleston during his touring. I did not know what to expect when meeting him for the first time. He sat in the Charleston conference room and just talked to everyone who was in attendance and answered all of our questions. He was very humble and that is what sticks with me the most. He never acted like he was better than anyone. He was an awesome man, and he will be greatly missed.
~Nick Harford
I have been with the company for 16 years; I got a chance to know Junior a little bit by talking with him over the phone and also when he would come to the Wisconsin office. What I admire the most was he was genuine. He always spoke with everyone with a smile; when he would come to our Christmas Parties, he would always give a speech that was uplifting. He will truly be missed; the company suffered a great loss. When I think of Junior, I'm remined of the Scripture in "Matthew 25:21 "His lord said to him well done, good and faithful servant, you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord".
Cheryl Jenkins
Junior’s passing was a shock, and it will sting for a long time, I am sure. He made such an impression on people he met, and his genuine demeanor was something I will never forget.
I have listened to and read so many accolades about him since his passing, and like I tell everyone-“everything they are saying about him is 100% true”-he was the real deal. I came home the night I got the news and turned on the NBA channel and immediately saw Shaquille O’Neal emotionally reflecting on the impact Junior had on his life.
I always remember anytime I was in his presence, initially I would “re-introduce” myself to him out of courtesy so he wouldn’t have to recall. His reaction was always the same, and he would extend his hand and say “Brad, I know who you are…”. I always looked at him as not only our owner, but a person that I was proud to talk about every chance someone would let me.
My thoughts and prayers continue to be with the entire Bridgeman family and all his extended work families. I always felt like it was an honor to serve under someone that truly tried to do the best he could for his employees. He made a difference in so many lives including mine.
~Brad Harden
I was blessed to talk with Junior many times over the years and always enjoyed it so much. I would go home to my family and tell my daughter how humble and amazing of a man he was. When we were at the skills competition last year my daughter was able to meet Junior herself. She asked him if she could take a picture with him, and he graciously agreed. MaKayla was so excited! We were standing close to a raffle ticket booth, and he came up and gave her a $50 bill and told her to buy herself some raffle tickets. She had been eyeing a blue tooth speaker, and she was so thrilled for the opportunity. She ended up winning the speaker thanks to Junior and he made such a big impression on her. I love that we both have this memory with Junior. In November, I got to see Junior at a meeting, and I told him she won. He said I remember that and I’m so glad she won.
Shelly Ketchum
Hello,
This photo was taken at our last Heartland Coca-Cola Pyramidion meeting in 2024. Since the first time I met Junior in 2017, I was instantly enamored by him, his background, and his story. He had this presence and aurora about him that I was drawn too. I loved to hear him speak, listening to his voice, watching for that smile of his and even now makes me happy thinking of it. He was always so kind, humble, didn’t want any attention, very approachable and truly lived by the inverted pyramid. He was truly one of kind and will be missed dearly!
RIP Junior!!
~Shawn Anderson
I was so very honored to work with Heartland Coca-Cola Leaders and Mr. Bridgeman on designing and executing the Bridgeman Leadership Academy for all leaders at Heartland Coca-Cola. This important development program is fashioned from all we have learned from Mr. Bridgeman’s leadership style and the way he cared for all of us as employees. Many of the lessons we teach our leaders come straight from his playbook on how important our employees are to the success of the business. He always said “If you take care of the employees, the employees will take care of the customers and business.” This is what we strive for everyday as leaders at Heartland. I just want to thank Mr. Bridgeman for the opportunity to have time with him, learn from him and grow under his leadership.
My love and condolences go out to the Bridgeman Family and all of the employees who had the privilege of working with and for Junior Bridgeman. He is loved and will be so missed by all of us.
Cheryl Frank
I wanted to briefly share a few thoughts on Junior from my experience with him.
When we first found out Junior was purchasing our territory to form Heartland Coca-Cola, admittedly I didn’t know that much about Junior. After doing a little googling I was intrigued by his background (as a self-proclaimed sports nut myself). I had the pleasure of meeting Junior early on and was able to speak with him on a number of occasions in the early days of Heartland. He introduced us to his philosophies on business – like the inverted pyramid – always saying he was the least important person in the room. He also spoke about how if you had a problem, you should bring it to the group – because then it was the group’s problem to solve. If you didn’t it was just your problem. He didn’t speak a lot in the meetings he attended, but when he did he had everyone’s undivided attention. He could be soft spoken at times – I would often find myself leaning in to hear every word he said. In all that I do in my job, when faced with a difficult decision or when dealing with a co-worker or a supplier I often think how would Junior handle this situation as a guide.
Throughout the past 8 years as Heartland Coca-Cola I’ve said to coworkers, friends, family, other bottling peers that it felt like we won the lottery when Junior purchased and formed Heartland Coca-Cola. We hit the jackpot with Junior as our owner. I truly feel that to this day. What a blessing it is to be even such a small part of Junior’s legacy. Thank you Junior and thank you to the entire Bridgeman family for allowing Junior to have such an impact on myself and so many.
~ Mandy Meyer