Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
FUNERAL HOME
JOEL BRADFORD Obituary
Joel Everett Bradford, 59, died on October 3, 2016 in Garner, North Carolina.
Joel was born in Manjama, Sierra Leone on August 6, 1957 to Lester and Winifred Bradford. He grew up in Manjama, Sierra Leone; Bogalusa and Baton Rouge, Louisiana and Mount Vernon, Washington and graduated from Yale College in New Haven, Connecticut in 1980.
He led a varied career as an electrical engineer, daycare provider and physics teacher in Natick Massachusetts, where he lived for over 30 years.
Joel was fiercely devoted to his family, redirecting his career to focus on raising his two sons. Throughout his life, he often defied convention, unabashedly forging his own path guided by his intellect and ideals.
He was a passionate educator who motivated and inspired thousands of students in his decades of teaching. His uniquely adventurous spirit led him around the country and around the world, from kite boarding the North Carolina coast to climbing Mount Kilimanjaro.
In his retirement, he led a free and spontaneous life of traveling, hiking, motorcycling, and, above all, enjoying his time as a beloved son, father, uncle, grandfather and great-uncle.
He is survived by his two sons, Everett and his wife Lauren of Apex, North Carolina, and Luke of Cambridge, Massachusetts; granddaughter Brooke; parents Lester and Winifred Bradford of Mount Vernon, Washington; brother Ethan Bradford and his wife Kelly of Seattle, Washington; sisters Dorcas Bouey of Big Lake, Washington, Julie Guyette and husband Harry of Fresno, California, and Melinda Grace Skidmore of Maple Valley, Washington; nephews Caleb Bouey and his wife Meredith, Alex Bouey, Ezra Bradford, Clinton Bradford and his wife Cara, Alden Bradford and Jeremy Guyette; nieces Natalie Kuffel and her husband Mikhail, Hannah Novotny, Emily Guyette and Laurestine Bradford. He was Gruncle Joel to Darby, Ashlin, Otto, Felix, Silas and Freyja.
Please join us in a Celebration of Life for Joel at Hillcrest Park Lodge on November 25th at 5:00 p.m.
Memorials in Joel's name may be made to Heifer International.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for JOEL BRADFORD
Ratnakar Amaravadi
November 16, 2016
Joel was a great teacher. The type of teacher I wanted to be. I loved his chimney sweep problem in the friction unit. He helped me with some fundamental realizations in physics - free fall & circular motion, scattering of light. I taught alongside him for 7 years. We shared the same prep room. He had a great demo for each one of those gizmos in the prep room. I learned a bunch from him. To take things easy. I learned Physics from him. I loved his humor. What presence of mind he had. Joel, we are all going to miss you. I
was hoping that I would bump into you someday. RIP. ratty
Robin Plumer
October 23, 2016
Joel was a terrific educator and wonderful man. We overlapped at Natick High for several years and he always made me smile - even when catching me off guard with a crazy air gun and other physics teaching "tools". For Luke especially, who I had the privilege of having in my class, please know how sorry I am to hear of your dad's passing. May his memory be a blessing.
J F
October 21, 2016
To the family,
I am sorry for your great loss. May the God who "binds up the broken-hearted" and "comforts all who mourn" sustain your family durning this challenging time. (Isaiah 61:1,2)
With heartfelt sympathy-
October 9, 2016
So sorry for your loss. Jesus wept after the death of his friend Lazarus. John 11:35 We weep along with you.
How you can show support
Follow
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
Mary (Barnes) Jay
October 8, 2016
I remember Jeb well. I have often wondered where he ended up. He was a close friend of one of my brothers. The two of them were 4 years older than me, but Jeb reached out and tried to heal the relationship between this brother and I. He explained the feelings behind it to me.
Gloria Benge
October 7, 2016
This breaks my heart, Joel was such a sweet and funny. I never heard him say anything negative. One of my favorite memories was of him singing the music from Godspell.
Heaven gained a beautiful angel! Rest in peace.
Amy Miller
October 7, 2016
Dear Luke and Everett,
You may not remember us, but my daughter, Emma Miller, was in daycare with your dad (and you both) in the early 90s. We were so shocked and saddened to hear of his passing via a mutual friend's comment on Facebook. Joel had such a deep, profound influence on our lives, and we will always treasure our friendship and memories of him. I kept all of his daycare journals that detailed Emma's every move during her days with you all, and have unearthed a number of photos I'd love to share with you and Everett. I know there are also hours of video of afternoons at daycare, birthday parties, and other adventures. Your dad was in a class of his own, and we were so blessed to have known him. We are holding you and Everett and your family close in our heart and thoughts.
Eva Bradford
October 7, 2016
Uncle Joel, Always my favorite uncle.
My best memories of my childhood were when you and your boys came to Westport for 4th of Julys, Reunions, and Thanksgivings.
You were a person with so much passion and charisma. You brought fun and excitement into every room, and adventure into every day. You had a keen appreciation for the natural world and you lived life as it was meant to be lived.
My memories of you being in my life started very young, with visiting your daycare, camping trips, and day hikes up in Maine. I will always remember you participating with us in our kick-the-can games(very brave of you, you would remain "it" for a long time because you underestimated us and our code words). I remember your smile and laughter as you received only bananas for your birthday, each one disguised as creatures or an airplane. I picture you sitting at a card table at 'Uncle Robert's' while playing barboo with a cigar in the corner of your mouth, and yelling "settle down, you kids!
When I was in middle school you took me along at the spur of the moment for a week of camping and rock climbing at Otter cliffs. You also agreed to tutor me in high school physics one summer, although riding on the back of your motorcycle with you has stuck in my memory more than the physics did! With your encouragement we did a triathlon together in 2004.
The Westport barbeques and cottage card games (Oh Hell games, and "off the dock!") won't be the same without you! In mornings after a crazy night you would wake up ready to go for a run and gather up a gang to go with you.
Was there a way to make you mad? Stranding your car out on an island before the tide came didn't work. You took my little brother under your wing for big hiking adventures, and his way of showing affection for you was rebuilding a rock wall around your car so you couldn't leave Westport.
You were kind and caring, especially for the very young and the very old. You loved babies and children, and your light-hearted spirit allowed you to connect with young people in a way most adults can't. You were enthusiastic and spontaneous yet, were thoughtful, patient, and thorough. I remember you were always humming a song or whistling, and your step always had a determined bounce in it.
For me, and my siblings and cousins, you were a role model in spontaneity, living in the moment and finding the adventure in everything.
You will remain in my heart forever.
Fay Fizgerald
October 7, 2016
May your soul shine with the light of a million suns ~ Forever in my heart Cousin. Miss you tons
Camille Napier Bernstein
October 7, 2016
Everett and Luke,
I was honored to teach with your dad, a brilliant guy and hilarious goofball who loved kids and learning and spread joy and mischief in equal measure.
He generously let Marnie Musante and me ride his motorcycle around the old building during our planning period, and he was always game for a prank.
I was among dozens who thought him a hero -- a true Transcendentalist -- when he left teaching, before securing a comfortable pension, to suck the marrow out of life.
My colleagues and I have cried together and laughed together sharing stories of your dear dad.
The world is lessened by his departure from it.
October 7, 2016
Julie Browne
October 7, 2016
When I heard he was selling his house and belongings with plans to ride off on his motorcycle, it neither surprised nor disappointed me. My mother's stories of working with him never ceased to entertain me. He was one of those people that I always wanted to have more conversations with, to get to know better, because he was just that fascinating and intellectually challenging. And despite not knowing him well, I liked him tremendously as both a person and an educator. I know I speak for myself and my family: he will be missed.
Sarah Perdoni
October 6, 2016
Mr. Bradford was easily one of my favorite teachers at Natick High. His excitement for learning and unique teaching style pushed met be the teacher I am today. His class was probably the hardest and best class I took as a freshman but he believed in what he taught and found anyway he could to make sure we were engaged and learning. My deepest condolences to your family. He was loved by so many.
Caroline O'Neil
October 6, 2016
We were one of the lucky families to be in Joel's family daycare. It was always reassuring to arrive at Joel's house after work and see all of the happy, curious and joyful children who had spent another interesting and fun filled day with Joel, Everett and Luke. Joel was a wonderful mentor for me as a new parent and absolutely made his mark on the tiny ones in his care. Warm thoughts to Luke, Everett and family.
Dan Shamir
October 6, 2016
Everett and Luke, my sincerest condolences for the loss of your father. I wish I could reach out under better circumstances because I've been meaning to get in touch to catch up. Your father played such a significant role in my personal development, he remains one of my heroes to this day. i'll never forget the pizza eating contests, his generosity in teaching me how to play bass (and letting me play as 2nd bass in the student band, as if there was really a need for that), "if it's brown, flush it down" (the reason I didn't even apply to that school), and just generally being a great, genuine role model. Honestly, I'm at a real loss for words... Every time I came home to Natick I tried to stop by and see him and to see how he was doing. I remember running into him the last time I was in Natick, in the parking lot by Roche Bros in front of the bank of america, and we spoke for maybe 30 minutes just there in the middle of that lot, and I remember after we parted just how happy I was to have gotten a chance to see him again, even haphazardly. So so sorry for your loss.
Jeff Bradford
October 6, 2016
I'll miss you buddy
Loving thoughts from Colorado.
Jane Ross
October 6, 2016
Joel Bradford: I knew him as an adventurous and thought-provoking child - in Sierra Leone in the 60s. One who was guided by his experience, intellect and culturally-informed ideals that were individualized as a result of an interesting family who engaged deeply in forging their own ways of living. I found him and the family altogether wonderful and always challenging boundaries. I cherish an engaging telephone call with him 4 years ago where he was obviously and still the adult version of the Joel I know. I regret that I was not close enough to know him as an adult. My heart felt condolences to all family members: to his mother Winnie, his father Les, his sisters Doris, Julie, and Melinda; and his brother Ethan (thank you for letting Jack and me know). So very, very many good memories of each of you - and ongoing appreciation for the good things you have done.I sincerely hope someone will find a way to mark his life and passing in Sierra Leone.
Jane Ross
October 6, 2016
Joel Bradford: I knew him as an adventurous and thought-provoking child - in Sierra Leone in the 60s. One who was guided by his experience, intellect and culturally-informed ideals that were individualized as a result of an interesting family who engaged deeply in forging their own ways of living in another land and respecting it and its people and landscape. I found Joel and the family altogether wonderful; always challenging boundaries. I cherish an engaging telephone call with him four years ago where he was obviously and still the adult version of the Joel I know. I regret that I was not close enough to maintain an ongoing relationship so I could know him as an adult. My heart felt condolences to all family members: to his mother Winnie, his father Les, his sisters Doris, Julie, and Melinda; and his brother Ethan (thank you for letting Jack and me know), and his children. So very, very many good memories of Joel and each of the Bradford family members - and with ongoing appreciation for the special people you are and the good things you have done.
Harry Abrahams
October 6, 2016
Mr. Bradford was a mentor and role model in ways I can never truly express. He pushed me as a student harder than any other teacher has and I could not thank him enough for that. He made me feel comfortable at Natick High after transferring in through his Comm. Sem. I'll never forget cooking in his classroom on those days. He truly exemplified the words of Taylor Mali in his poem "What Teachers Make"; Mr.Bradford made a difference. His memory will always be a blessing
Leo Ryan
October 6, 2016
Our deepest condolences for your loss. Mr. Brdford was a great and inspirational member of the Natick community. Dinner table conversations at the Ryan home included countless references to Mr Bradford as our daughter Maggie was greatly motivated and influenced by him. Maggie will soon begin her teaching career and Mr. Bradford helped ignite that flame.
October 6, 2016
Mr. Bradford was our sons physics teacher freshman and senior year. Our son wouldn't be the engineer in the job he's at if it weren't for Mr. Bradford. He gave 100% to all of his students and made physics fun. We are so sad to hear of his death and want to extend our deepest sympathy to all of his family. He will be missed.
Marilyn LaBossiere
October 6, 2016
Marilyn LaBossiere
October 6, 2016
Marilyn LaBossiere
October 6, 2016
October 6, 2016
October 6, 2016
October 6, 2016
October 6, 2016
October 6, 2016
October 6, 2016
Tara Neger
October 6, 2016
For me, Mr. Bradford was the only teacher at NHS that made me want to learn what he was teaching. The funniest part was, I wasn't in his class but only in his homeroom. The day always started out bright and fun in home room, with music and occasional food. Something so small that could help a person through the rest of their day.
Thank you for the kindness and enthusiasm.
I send my prayers to his loved ones.
Randall Barnes
October 5, 2016
He was my best friend in highschool. I remember his beloved Parka, unique style and appreciated his holp during many great times. I am glad to hear he will be missed by so many.
Doug Scott
October 5, 2016
Luke and Everett
What a joy it was to teach alongside your Dad. He was a super passionate teacher who had "it". He had the technical skills but more importantly had the ability to reach students. I am so glad he took the last several years to explore, his passion for exploration would not allow him to sit still. Proud to have known and worked with Joel. I will continue to utilize teaching skills that your dad had shown me.
Ben Leavitt
October 5, 2016
Mr. Bradford will forever remain in my heart as the inspiring and energetic teacher who taught us physics could be fun. So many of my peers formed strong bonds and learned life lessons in his classroom. He was, without a doubt, one of the most positively influencial teachers in my high school years. I will always remember his smiling face, endless enthusiasm, and drive to push his students to the limits.
The Forber-Pratt Family
October 5, 2016
Everett and Luke, our family send you our deepest condolences. Your dad's humor, candor, and moral courage, along with his unfailing kindness to our family have kept him in our hearts and conversations for many years. And was there anything that he could not do? He had a great sense of adventure, and I have to think that he is now having another. We are so sorry for your loss.
Jen Johnson
October 5, 2016
Never knew of met him but I heard good things about him. My condolences to his family and friends. May he rest in peace.
Valerie Stark
October 5, 2016
Everett and Luke and family, our prayers are with you. What a great man he was. Each one of our children was deeply inspired and influenced by him. From the George Foreman grill to the flying monkey, to a love of physics and teaching, we and our kids felt the respect he carried for his profession and students, and returned the respect gladly.
Noah Wadsworth
October 5, 2016
Joel was that one teacher that made an impression on so many different students. I have so much to thank him for. He made science fun for me freshman and senior year. Without him I would not be in the career I am in today. Luke and Everett, I am so sorry for your loss. The world has lost one of its most interesting people. Thanks for everything, Mr. Bradford.
October 5, 2016
Science Department at NHS
October 5, 2016
Debra Patch
October 5, 2016
Everett and Luke, I had the pleasure of working with your dad for 9 years at Natick. He was a great man and will be missed dearly. May you find strength in all of your wonderful memories with him.
Arthur Taddeo
October 5, 2016
My deepest condolences to Joel's family for your loss of a wonderful man.
I had the pleasure of teaching , in the same dept, with him and considered myself a friend. We all lost a terrific gentleman in his passing. Remember the good times you had with him, they will see you through this tough time and in many cases put a smile on your face.
Art Taddeo
Jim Hersey
October 5, 2016
Our hearts will be open to all the light that Joel brought into the world. Godspeed.
October 5, 2016
Everett and Luke,
I am so sorry about the loss of your dad. He was an amazing father, teacher, and colleague. When the Physics First program was started at NHS and new physics teachers were needed your Dad was so helpful in guiding me through my first year, especially with the physics labs.
Over the years in the science department I enjoyed bringing him leftovers from home, often in the form of a partially eaten casserole, and he was always happy to empty the dish.
He was so proud of you two, rightly so. May your memories of your father and the love of family and friends bring you comfort.
Mrs. L (Marilyn LaBossiere)
Dorcas Bouey
October 5, 2016
And now on to your next adventure! We all would have liked to hang on to you longer but your great circle of life had a different plan! It was a great run! I am grateful for the time I had with you, little bro!
October 5, 2016
Everett and Luke, I am so sorry and will be praying for your family. One memory I have is your Dad sending students up to S250 to " borrow" oil so they could make popcorn in his class. Cherish the happy times. Linda Plachy
Showing 1 - 46 of 46 results
Make a Donation
in JOEL BRADFORD's name
Memorial Events
for JOEL BRADFORD
Oct
7
Oct
7
People and places connected with JOEL
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
How to support JOEL's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor JOEL BRADFORD's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
