Ralph Edward Bradley, Sr.

Ralph Edward Bradley, Sr., 93, passed away Wednesday, February 20, 2019, at his residence in Aberdeen while surrounded by his family. He joins the two loves of his life: his Lord and Savior and Martha, his loving wife of 65 years who preceded him in death in 2013. Ralph was born December 14, 1925, to Mary Elizabeth “Mamee” Bradley and Floyd Andrews Bradley in Aberdeen, MS where he lived his entire life. After graduating from high school, he joined the US Navy to become a pilot, but the war ended before he earned his wings. Returning to civilian life, he enrolled at the University of Mississippi where he earned a bachelor’s degree in general engineering and a master’s degree in civil engineering. During that time, he and Martha were married. Upon graduation, he returned to Aberdeen to join his brother Floyd and brother-in-law Wes Luebke to run Bradley Lumber Company. In 1968, he started Bradley Concrete Company and ran that business until 1988 when he retired. Ralph had many opportunities upon graduation to work elsewhere in the engineering field, but the desire to return home and help manage the family business was his primary calling. Ralph learned to hunt and fish as a young boy and he never relinquished those passions until age took its toll. Until very recent years, he was fond of duck hunting with his friends, son, and grandsons. In summers after work, he could often be found in his boat on Lake Monroe fly fishing accompanied by one of his beloved dogs. People will remember Ralph as a kind and caring individual, always thinking of others, and invariably with a warm sense of humor. He was a lifelong member of the First United Methodist Church of Aberdeen. Ralph was preceded in death by his dear wife Martha, his brother Floyd Andrews Bradley, Jr. and his sister Margine Bradley Luebke. He is survived by his son Ralph Edward “Ed” Bradley, Jr. and his daughter Gail Bell; his four grandchildren David Bradley and Mary Anne Bradley; Andrew Bell and Allison Bell; seven great-grandchildren: Joseph Bradley; David Pochesci, Francesco Pochesci, and Emanuele Pochesci; Haiden Bell, Fallyn Bell, and Banks Bell. Ralph also leaves behind 3 loving nieces – Karen Stewart, Suzanne Rogers and Claire Gregory, and two nephews – Floyd A. “Brad” Bradley, III and Alan Howell.