Photo courtesy of Freay Funeral Home - Mayville
Mayville, New York
1936 - 2023
Mary Julia Morgan Bradford 86 of Mayville passed away peacefully on July 3, 2023, at the Absolut Care in Westfield, NY.
She was born July 29, 1936, in Portville, NY, the 2nd of 10 children, to the late John and Eva Blakeslee Morgan.
Mary graduated from Portville Central School, class of 1954, and married the late Gerald L. Bradford on November 23rd of that same year. She loved the New York Yankees and attended several games with her sisters. Knitting, crocheting and quilting were a love of hers as well.
Mary worked with the American Red Cross as a swimming instructor for many years. She enjoyed working as a lifeguard at Chautauqua Elementary School, Peek ‘n Peak Resort, and BOCES Educational Center for several years.
Her love for kids was her passion. After raising her own four children, she babysat for her grandchildren and several children from the community which extended into two generations.
Mary was very active in the Eastern Star. She joined the Mayville chapter in May of 1993. She was nominated Worthy Matron four times and became Deputy Grand Matron at the state level. Mary was secretary for the Mayville and Sherman chapters for several years.
She is survived by four children Gerald (Debbie) Bradford II of Houston, TX, Julie (Kip) Biggs of Surfside, TX, Edward (Claire) Bradford of Mayville, NY, James (Mary) Bradford of Mayville, NY, six grandchildren, Christopher (Crystal) Bradford of Houston, TX, Alan (Amy) Seekins of Palmetto, FL, Ashley Seekins of Palmetto, FL, Desirae Bradford of Lakewood, NY, Joshua (Kaylee) Bradford of Lakewood, NY, Audrey (Nate) Griewisch of Forestville, NY, four sisters Alice (Dewey) Gustin, of Shinglehouse, PA, Arloene (Gary) Skroback, Sylvia Shields and Jaye (John) Zelko all of Portville, NY, plus several great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
Mary was preceded in death by her husband of 63 years, Gerald Lee Bradford, two brothers, John and Ned Morgan, and three sisters, Alberta Rowe, Ruby Ellen Morgan, and Cynthia Cline.
The family will receive family and friends on Friday, July 21, 2023, from 12:00-3:00 pm at Freay Funeral Home (139 South Erie St. Mayville, NY). The funeral service will be held immediately following visitation.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials be made to a charity or organization of choice.
To leave a remembrance or to post condolences to the family, please visit freayfuneralhome.com
Read MoreSincere sympathy to Mary's family on her loss. We enjoyed knowing her and visiting with her during the summers at the lake. We didn't know she was in the Eastern Star. Jim is a 32nd Degree Mason. May her memory be a blessing to you.
Jim and Pamela Bane
July 21, 2023 | Valley View, OH | Friend
Ed, Claire and the extended family - We are very sorry for the Loss of Mary. Please accept our sincere condolences. Our thoughts are with you at this difficult time.
Bruce and Judy Battler
July 21, 2023 | Jamestown, NY | Friend
We are so sorry to hear of Mary's passing. Mary was such a help in the late seventies and early eighties when we were raising our eight children. She was especially loved by our youngest, twins,Tom & Peter, who spent many hours playing safely and happily in the Bradford home. Mary was a very special lady who will be sadly missed by so many in our community. Prayers for Peace go to the hearts of her family.
Bonnie & John Wysard
July 21, 2023 | Westfield, NY | Friend
So sorry for your loss. She was such a good friend and close sister. She will be missed by all.
Joan Himelein
July 21, 2023
You will be remembered for your service to your community.
Stephanie Schell
July 11, 2023 | Lakewood, NY
Served her community by volunteering.
Stephanie D Schell
July 11, 2023
I'm so sorry for your loss.
Francie Carlson
July 10, 2023 | Mayville, NY | Friend
So very sorry for your loss. Prayers for the family.
Francine Lloyd
July 10, 2023 | Ft. Myers, FL | Friend