b'A man of great faith, his company, Manna, became aContinuing in their tradition of service, the Bridgeman symbol of his unwavering belief in God and foundationalCharitable Group founded the Trifecta Gala, a prestigious, dedication to integrity, generosity and service. celebrity-studded Kentucky Derby event in Louisville, that The entrepreneurial spirit struck again in 2016. Bridgemanhonored the contributions of African Americans to Derby sold half his restaurant franchises and acquired Heartland,history. Throughout the years, this charitable event, a Coca-Cola bottling company. He later went to invest in donated proceeds to various organizations across the a Canadian Coca-Cola bottling company as well. state. The EBONY Years A Life of Faith and ServiceIn January 2021, Bridgeman, via 1145 Holdings, LLC.,Junior was a man of deep Christian faith, which playedpurchased EBONY and JET. His daughter, Edena significant role throughout his life. He was an active Bridgeman, who rose in ranks to serve as CMO of Manna,member of Southeast Christian Church, a Louisville Inc., took the reigns as CEO of EBONY, reframing it as amegachurch known for its strong community outreach digital media brand committed to Moving Blackand commitment to the gospel. Forward.His faith influenced his approach to business, leadership In the past four years, EBONY has evolved into a digitaland philanthropy. Bridgeman often spoke about the stronghold which includes curation of impactful digitalimportance of integrity, humility and serving others, covers and cultural events such as EBONY Power 100.values that aligned with his Christian beliefs. He was Under the Bridgemans, EBONY has seen exponentialinvolved in numerous charitable efforts, particularly growth, moving from a revered print magazine into afocusing on youth education and community culturally resonant media powerhouse, renewing thedevelopment. publications profound legacy into a new age. Even as his business empire grew, Bridgeman remained When you look at EBONY, you look at the history not committed to his church and faith, frequently supporting just for Black people, but of the United States, JuniorChristian-based initiatives and emphasizing the role of Bridgeman once shared. I think its something that aGods guidance in his success. generation is missing and we want to bring that back His unwavering faith and dedication to service left an as much as we can. indelible mark on his community, inspiring many through Honored and Giving Backhis actions and leadership.Back to Home CourtBridgemans accomplishments were duly recognized throughout his life. In 1999, he was a recipient of theIn a full circle move, Bridgeman returned to where his NCAA Honors Committee Silver Anniversary Award,career began to purchase a minority owner interest inwhich honors former student-athletes who havethe Milwaukee Bucks in September 2024. With the deal, distinguished themselves since completing their collegehe became the sixth professional athlete to be worth $1 athletics careers 25 years prior.billion or more and was named by Forbes as a new He also received the Coach Wooden Keys to Life Award American Billionaire.in 2001, Missouri Valley Conference Hall of Fame in 2009,In RemembranceKentucky Entrepreneur Hall of Fame in 2014, GreaterBridgeman is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Louisville Inc.Gold Cup Award in 2019 and in 2023, theDoris; his three children, Justin, Ryan and Eden; his six Keepers of the Dream Freedom Award from the City ofgrandchildren; countless nieces, nephews, friends, Louisville along with numerous other awards bothcolleagues, loved ones and many other lives he touched.personal and business-related.Junior and Doris Bridgeman received an honorary DoctorJunior Bridgeman, undoubtedly, made a difference in of Public Service degree from the University of Louisvillethousands of lives through his faith, leadership and for their longstanding community service. compassion. His presence will be missed by his EBONY family and beyond.13'