Earl Henry Bradford Jr.

1942 - 2024

Earl H. Bradford, Jr., 81, died peacefully on April 21, 2024, at his home in The Villages, Florida with family by his side after a long illness.

He is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Joanne (Grucelski); his children, Michele (Joe) Sondrini of Concord, NC, Jeffrey (Sarah) Bradford of Pittsfield, MA, and Suzanne (Dawn Jenner) Bradford of Greenfield, MA; his brother, Robert Bradford (Nina Novales) of The Villages, FL; and sister, Charlene Borden of Irvine, CA. Forever cherished and remembered by his five granddaughters, Arianna (Ethan) Goude, Alyssa, and Alaina Sondrini; Jordan and Emily Bradford, and many nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

He was predeceased by two brothers; Raymond F. Bradford and Frederick T. Bradford and by two sisters; Ann E. Lockenwitz and Carol M. Murk.

Earl, the second youngest of seven children, was born on November 7th, 1942, in Pittsfield, MA to the late Veronica T. Cavanaugh Bradford and Earl H. Bradford, Sr. Earl spent his first 16 years in Lee MA, after which the family moved to Pittsfield. After graduating from Pittsfield High School in 1961, he enlisted in the United States Air Force (1962 to 1966). While home on leave Earl met his future wife, Joanne Grucelski of Pittsfield, MA, on a blind date. The two were married on January 16, 1965. After being honorably discharged, Earl and Joanne returned to The Berkshires to raise their family. Earl began his career working for General Electric as a welder/machinist. He retired from GE / General Dynamics in 1998. After retirement, Earl and Joanne purchased an RV and fulfilled their lifelong dream of traveling across the country. Eventually, they decided to make a permanent home in Florida at The Villages, an expansive retirement community. While living in Florida, Earl enjoyed spending time on the golf course and playing card games with Joanne and their friends.

Earl's hobbies reflected his personality and love for his family. He was an avid bowler and sports fan who especially enjoyed watching golf, college football, and horse racing. Earl's sense of humor, and his ability to recall stories from his past vividly, entertained everyone. If he knew you, then there was probably a story he was going to tell. Earl was a man who loved his family and spent every moment cherishing those around him.

The Bradford Family would like to thank the hospice team at VITAS Hospice of Lake/Sumter County, Florida. The loving care, kindness, and concern the staff showed for Earl, particularly in his final days, comforted us all. The family would also like to thank Elizabeth Dickson, Joanne's sister. A retired nurse, specializing in Geriatric care, Elizabeth traveled to Florida, supported Joanne, and helped care for Earl during his final weeks.

At Earl's request, there will be no funeral or memorial service. The Bradford family thanks all who have expressed their condolences. Donations in Earl's memory can be made to VITAS Hospice of Sumter/Lake County The Villages, FL, or St. Jude.