Gerald Leon Bradshaw

Mr. Gerald “Leon” Bradshaw, born on June 22, 1948, to Decator and Clara Henson Bradshaw, went to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on February 23, 2026.

As a native of Hiawassee, Georgia, Leon embraced the sense of community that can only be found in a small town. He was proud of his mountain roots and was an active member of Bell Scene Baptist Church. He also found joy in the simple pleasures of life, especially horseback riding and antique cars.

It has been said that life is not defined by the dates of one’s birth or death, but by the legacy left behind—represented by the dash between those dates. From very humble beginnings, Leon built a legacy of hard work, perseverance, and above all, unfailing love for his family. He instilled in his children and grandchildren the importance of character, teaching them that a handshake and your word should be as trustworthy as any signed legal document. He lived by the conviction that you never turn your back on family, friends, or anyone in need, and he demonstrated that belief in countless quiet ways. Through his steady example, he showed his family—and all who knew him—what family truly means: loving, supportive, and accountable. He was especially proud of his grandchildren, who brought him immense joy and fulfillment. Above all, his greatest wishes were for his family to know how deeply he loved them and for his family and friends to know of his profound love for Jesus Christ. He would want each of them to make preparations to meet him in Heaven.

In addition to his parents, Leon is preceded in death by four brothers: Clifford Bradshaw Sr., Decator Bradshaw Jr., Jack Bradshaw, and Jerry Bradshaw; and four sisters: Dorothy Ledford, Betty Robinson, Margie McKenzie, and Annie Sue Ledford.

He is survived by his loving wife of fifty five years, Maxine Bradshaw; his children, Sheri Bradshaw Hardin (Phillip) and Darren Leon Bradshaw (Kerri); his grandchildren, Ansleigh Hardin, Emory Hardin, and Liam Bradshaw; his brother, James Bradshaw; and his sister, Opal Carnes; along with many nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, February 28, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. at Banister Cooper Funeral Home. Our loved one will lie in state at Bell Scene Baptist Church on Sunday, March 1, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m., followed by the funeral service at 2:00 p.m., with Rev. Jamey Chastain and Rev. Kevin Moss officiating.

Pallbearers will be Cliff Bradshaw, Emory Hardin, Phillip Hardin, David Dills, David Penland, and Shannon Moss. Honorary pallbearer will be Johnny Burch.

This is not goodbye; it is until later, when we are reunited on that Homecoming Day.