James Ralph Bradford was born on March 31, 1947 in Battles Wharf, Alabama. He passed away peacefully on Feb. 22, 2017 at the age of 69 in Houston, Texas.
At age 17, Ralph enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps. LCpl. J.R. Bradford was released from active duty with honors on March 30, 1967, earning a National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with two bronze stars, and Presidential Unit Commendation Ribbon with one bronze star.
After retiring in 1999, Ralph fulfilled his lifelong dream of living on the farm and raising chickens, goats, donkeys, pigs, cows and any strays that wandered on his farm. From sunup to sundown, you could always find Ralph in the pastures tending to his animals, joy riding in his golf cart with a dog or two in tote, fishing at the pond, or on his tractor working the land.
Ralph was truly one of a kind. He had a way about him that made everyone feel special and loved. Above all, he loved his family and friends dearly. He was a loving husband, doting father and grandfather, and the best brother and friend anyone could have. Ralph had a zest for life, contagious smile, and was a true friend to everyone.
Ralph is survived by his devoted wife of 50 years, JoAnn; his son and wife, Frank and Angel Bradford; and his daughter and husband, Carrie and Tony Elliott; his grandchildren, Justin, Bailey and Breanna, Jacob and Logan; brother, Raymond Bradford; sisters, Alla Mae Duke, Marie Walker and Alice Johnson; his honorary Native American Indian brother, Amon Sylestine, and sisters, Delores Johnson and Beryl Battise; and many relatives and friends who loved him dearly.
Ralph was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Lola Bradford; brothers, Bennett Alday, Coleman Bradford and Earl Bradford; sisters, Estell Wilson, Vivian Smith, Lillie Garrison, Hazel Duncan and Betty Williams; honorary Native American Indian brothers, Lowell Sylestine and Gordon Sylestine, and sister, Janie Battise.
Ralph was blessed with countless friends, and our family will forever be grateful to those great friends, doctors, nurses and staff for their compassionate care and support during his pain and suffering.
Ralph was always gracious even when faced with the unfortunate circumstances that led to pain and suffering. No matter how much pain he was in, he always welcomed visits from family and friends, had a smile on his face and asked how they were doing.
Burial was in the Alabama State Veterans Memorial Cemetery at Spanish Fort.
Funeral arrangements are by Mack Funeral Home & Crematory, Highway 59, Robertsdale, Alabama, www.mackfuneral.com.
