A proud and valiant warrior was called home. Tina Irene (Wood) Bridgham, 54, passed away early Friday morning, Feb. 1, 2013, at Down East Community Hospital after living more than six years with cancer. She was born May 14, 1958, to Lillian and Roland Wood of Machiasport.

She is survived by her husband, Gary Bridgham; four children, Sara Andrews, Travis Bridgham, Diana Cook and Katie Mills; and four grandchildren, Troy and Danae Shurn, Charity Cook, and Raistlin Mills.

Though she shared her love and life with countless children who have passed through her lunch lines, coworkers she bonded with, and friends whose hearts she touched, nothing was more valuable to her than her family. She was a strong and dependable wife, mother, sister, daughter and friend to so many who will have an emptiness that will linger. But do not despair and weep for her passing. Instead, feel joy that you few, among the millions, were blessed with the chance to know her. We are the lucky ones who have experienced the smiles and laughs that she distributed as generously as her cooking.

A memorial service will be held 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 9, at Larrabee Baptist Church, Machiasport. All are welcome to attend. In lieu of flowers, we request donations be made to Down East Hospice Volunteers.