Ima Verdell Bridges (Mamadell) was born in Rusk County June 14, 1926 to Rev J.C. and Serena Beckworth (Jones). Verdell graduated from Fredonia High School and attended Wiley College in Marshall, Texas and Butler College in Dallas, Texas.  Later Verdell met and married the love of her life Rayven Bridges.

Verdell was long term employee of Longview Independent School District, Verdell was the musician of several churches. Later played for the mission chorus and Sunday School at Mt. Olive Baptist Church. Verdell was faithful member of Mt. Olive Baptist Church until her health began to fail.

Verdell was preceded in death by parents Rev. J.C. Beckworth, Serena Jones, her husband Rayven Bridges, son Rev. J. C. Watkins, sister Jessie Mae Edwards, granddaughter Vernita Mathews, and stepdaughter Wilma Hardeman.

Left to forever cherish her memory are her children: Jeannie Pitts and John L. Watkins; daughter‐in‐law: Betty Watkins; grandchildren: Rev. Jamie Brown, Sara Jackson (Rev. Jackson), Keith Watkins, Kelisa Watkins, Carson Watkins, Curtis Watkins, Darius Watkins (Mandy), Andre’ Watkins, Charlette Roberts (Rejard), John Watkins II, April Hardeman, Stephanie Polk; 19 great‐grandchildren; 9 great‐great grandchildren; a loving god‐daughter: Evon Williams; special friend: Etta Mann; a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, church family and many friends.