James B. Bradley Sr.

1924 - 2021

James B. Bradley, Sr., 97, of Pylesville, MD, died on Wednesday, September 1, 2021. Mr. Bradley was born on June 6, 1924 in Baltimore, Maryland, to his late parents, Charles and Marie Bradley. He remained a life-long resident of Maryland until the time of his death.

James was an honored war hero, serving in the United States Army during World War II. He enlisted in Baltimore in 1943 and later stormed the beaches of Normandy on his 20th birthday. He fought valiantly at the Battle of the Bulge and liberated Paris from the siege of German Nazi's. His unit, the 38th US Calvary then defended Monschau, with their final battle, drive into and defense of Czechoslovakia following the German's surrender. Mr. Bradley was wounded in Germany on February 24, 1944. Commendations that Mr. Bradley received from a grateful nation included; the Purple Heart, Distinguished Unit Badge, Good Conduct Medal, European/African/Middle Eastern Theater Ribbon and the World War II Victory Ribbon. He was honored by the County Council of Harford County with a Proclamation and a Citation from the Harford County Executive's Office for his defense of world freedom and defeat of Nazi fascism.

While stationed in Czechoslovakia, James met his wife, Lillian. They had four different wedding ceremonies, two in Europe and two in the United States. Their family grew upon returning to Maryland with the addition of three children. After receiving an honorable discharge, James worked as a contractor, building custom homes with his son, Robert for 60 years, operating their business, James B. Bradley and Son Custom Homes. James was extremely well like by all that knew him. He held a sacred and special relationship with his granddaughter, Christine, who will miss him dearly.

James is survived by two children, James B. Bradley, Jr., of Towson, MD and Noreen Bradley, of East Hampton, NY. He is also survived by three grandchildren, Cary, Alex and Christine. In addition to his parents and late wife, James is predeceased by one sister, Ruth and three brothers, Charles, Edward and Earle.

A viewing was held at Harkins Funeral Home, Inc., Delta, PA on Thursday, September 16, 2021 followed by a funeral service with military honors at Garrison Forest Veterans Cemetery, Owings Mills, MD 21117. On behalf of a grateful nation, Harkins Funeral Home, Inc, of Delta, PA, was honored to be caring for the family.

For additional information, please visit: www.harkinsfuneralhome.com