Bridget Smith Kiestler was born on July 22, 1981, in Selmer, Tennessee, the cherished daughter of Phyllis Regenia Pounds Smith and the late David Smith. From her earliest days, Bridget carried a gentle steadiness about her—a quiet strength rooted in kindness, loyalty, and a heart that instinctively put others before herself.

On March 27, 2004, she married the love of her life, Kenneth Kiestler. Together, they built more than a home—they built a life grounded in faith, love, and unwavering devotion to their family. At the center of Bridget’s world were her three sons. Being their mother was not simply a role she filled; it was who she was. Her love for her boys was constant, fierce, and unconditional, shaping every choice she made and every day she lived.

Raised in the Gilchrist Community, Bridget was formed by close-knit relationships and strong values that stayed with her throughout her life. She was a proud graduate of Adamsville High School and later continued her education at West Tennessee Business College. For 25 years, she faithfully served at Prime Care, where her dependability, compassion, and genuine care left a lasting impression on coworkers and those she helped. She did her work the same way she lived her life—with integrity, humility, and a sincere concern for others.

Few things brought Bridget more joy than watching her sons play sports. Ball fields, gyms, and sidelines became second homes to her. She was there—always. Cheering loudly in moments of triumph, offering calm reassurance in moments of disappointment, and making sure her boys never doubted her presence or support. She gave 100 percent of herself to every practice, every game, and every event, creating a lifetime of memories defined by encouragement, pride, and love. Her presence in the stands was constant, and her voice was one her boys will forever hear in their hearts.

A faithful member of First Baptist Church in Selmer, Bridget found deep fulfillment in serving her church family. She gave her time willingly, helped wherever there was a need, and found joy in being part of something larger than herself. In her quieter moments, Bridget cherished the simple rhythms of home—especially relaxing and watching General Hospital, a familiar comfort that brought her peace.

On January 6, 2026, Bridget peacefully departed this life in Bethel Springs, Tennessee, at the age of 44 years, 5 months, and 15 days. While her time on this earth feels heartbreakingly brief, the depth of her love and the mark she left behind are immeasurable.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Kenneth Kiestler of Bethel Springs, Tennessee; her three beloved sons, Logan Kiestler, Kendall Kiestler, and Jase Kiestler, all of Bethel Springs; her mother, Phyllis Regenia Smith of Adamsville, Tennessee; her mother-in-law and father-in-law, Tonya and Randy Kiestler of Bethel Springs; her sister-in-law, Christy Kiestler of Spring Hill, Tennessee; her niece, Cara Beth Kiestler; and her grandmother-in-law, Nancy Wise.

In addition to her father, David Smith, Bridget was preceded in death by her grandparents, James Franklin and Monnie Eron Gillham Smith, and Arlis G. and Lessie Lain Pounds; her grandfather-in-law, Ralph Wise; and her grandparents-in-law, Chester and Sandra Kiestler.

Bridget’s life tells a story of faith lived quietly, love given freely, and devotion poured out daily. She showed us that presence matters—that standing beside the ones you love, in ordinary moments and extraordinary ones, is the truest form of devotion. Though her seat in the stands is now empty, her legacy remains—in her sons’ strength, in her family’s hearts, and in the countless lives she touched simply by being herself. Her love endures, her influence remains, and her memory will forever be held close by those who knew her and loved her.