Distinguished former basketball athlete Ulysses Lee “Junior” Bridgeman has died in Louisville, Kentucky, US, at the age of 71.
Bridgeman spent 12 years in the NBA, becoming one of its top players before retiring to pursue several building a restaurant empire which ultimately made him a billionaire.
In recent years he served as president and CEO of Bridgeman Foods, and also became a member of the board of directors of Churchill Downs (CDI).
“Junior was not just an esteemed member of the CDI board of directors, but a one-of-a-kind figure who embodied the spirit of the Kentucky Derby and whose entrepreneurial vision and commitment were instrumental in shaping our company,” said CDI’s CEO Bill Carstanjen in a statement. “His insights and leadership were invaluable, steadily advising us through opportunities and challenges with grace, calm and wisdom.
“Over the course of a lifetime, you can count yourself lucky if you meet one person like Junior Bridgeman. His kindness and humility masked a life of extraordinary accomplishment and profound impact that extends far beyond our organisation; he has indelibly shaped the fabric of Louisville, inspiring countless individuals with his sage leadership and generosity. All of us at Churchill Downs are devastated by his passing.
“We extend our deepest heartfelt condolences to his wife, Doris and his children Eden, Justin and Ryan, and we join his family and countless friends in mourning the loss of this great man and dear friend.”
