Billy Dean Bridwell Sr.

Billy Dean Bridwell, Sr., aged 93, passed away on June 29, 2024, in Scottsdale, AZ. Born on June 22, 1931, in Midland, Texas. Bill led a life marked by deep family ties and friendships, a passion for the cowboy lifestyle, and significant contributions to his community.

Bill was a beloved husband, father, and a revered great, great grandfather. Bill was a true cowboy at heart. He was an accomplished equestrian and all-around cowboy, known for his guitar-playing skills and incredible voice. He was a handsome fella. His gentle, even-tempered nature, coupled with his strength and reliability made him a pillar in his community. Bill was always true to his word and willing to lend a hand to anyone in need.

Bill grew up in Carlsbad, New Mexico, graduating from Carlsbad High School in 1949. Bill began his career in 1948, working on cattle ranches, which ignited his lifelong love for horses. Bill's career path took him through various industries, including oil fields across Colorado and Texas, and later with the Potash Company of America. Through growing his family and career he still managed to obtain a bachelor's degree in engineering. He continued at New Mexico State University's White Sands Physical Sciences Laboratory, where he worked in missile telemetry. Bill's expertise led him to roles in Yuma, AZ, working on missile testing projects. He later moved to Santa Maria, CA, to supervise the Ground Electronics Laboratory for General Electric. Bill was then transferred to Valley Forge, PA with GE still working in missle tracking and telemetry.

Bill was then transfered to Scottsdale in 1969. Bill had an opportunity for a career change and opened his first service station in Scottsdale, Bridwell and Son's. Bill continued to grow his businesses and at one time he had four service stations, a tire store and a parts store all located in Scottsdale. Bill's flagship business is Bridwell Automotive Center. This location has been in business for over 50 years and is operated by his sons, Lane and Terry Bridwell.

Bill was a member of many organizations over the years. He served as President of The Arizona Petroleum Retailers. He was a Lifetime member of the Scottsdale Mounted Sheriff's Posse where he participated in over 100 search and rescue missions. He was also a member of the Verde Vaqueros for over 40 years, supporting the Boys and Girls Club of Scottsdale. Bill rode with The Hashknife Gang that delivers mail on horseback from Holbrook to Scottsdale to kick-off the Parada Del Sol Rodeo and Parade. He also served on many City Council projects throughout the years.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Silas and Lila Bridwell; his brother, Darrell Bridwell; his wife of 71 years, Delora June Bridwell; Son's Billy Dean Bridwell Jr.,Lloyd Raymond Bridwell and great-grandson, Zachariah Bridwell-Bierman. He is survived by his sons, Lane Bridwell (Jennifer) and Terry Bridwell (Laura); along with 16 grandchildren, 29 great-grandchildren, and 7 great-great-grandchildren.

A service to celebrate Bill's life will be held on Saturday July 13th, 2024 at 11:00am at North Scottsdale United Methodist Church at 11735 N. Scottsdale Rd. Scottsdale, AZ 85254.

Contributions may be made in Bill's memory to the Boys and Girls Club of Scottsdale, reflecting his lifelong commitment to community support.