Robert Wayne Bradford

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Robert Wayne Bradford, a dedicated husband, father, and public servant, who departed this life on March 22, 2025. Born on June 16, 1953, in Ranger, Texas, Wayne was the son of Robert L. Bradford and Dorothy Stuard Bradford. He graduated from Breckenridge High School in 1971 and continued his education at Cisco Junior College, laying the foundation for a life devoted to service.

On August 26, 1972, Wayne married the love of his life, Jerre Hesson, in Breckenridge. Together, they embarked on a journey filled with love, laughter, and service to their community.

Wayne began his career in law enforcement in February 1974 with the Texas Department of Public Safety for seven and a half years, then took a break to join his father in the "oil patch".

He reentered law enforcement in 1994 with the Eastland County Sheriff's Office as a jailor and worked his way through the ranks to Chief Deputy. He obtained his Master Peace Officer Award in 2006.

In 1997, he ran for and was elected Eastland County Sheriff, an office he proudly held for 24 years. He served with dignity and was honored to have faithfully served the citizens of Eastland County.

Wayne and Jerre built their home North of Ranger, where they raised two daughters, Kelley and Kayce. The girls blessed them with four beautiful grandchildren - Taylor, Brady, Emma and Reese. Wayne's eyes would always light up when he talked (well, bragged) about them!

Wayne was a faithful member and deacon of First Baptist Church Eastland, where he led Men of Honor, a men's prayer breakfast group. He also co-led the Praise Sunday school class for many years. He found joy in the simple pleasures of life, often spending time tinkering in his workshop and pursuing his passion for woodworking. As a Mason, he embraced the values of brotherhood and community service.

Wayne is survived by his beloved wife, Jerre; his daughters, Kelley Decker and Kayce Ladd (Allen); grandsons, Taylor Decker, Brady Decker, and Reese Decker; granddaughter, Emma Ladd; his sister, Nancy McClure (Ed); and numerous nieces and nephews, all of whom will cherish his memory.

Family and friends will have the opportunity to pay their respects at Edwards Funeral Home in Eastland on Tuesday, March 25th, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. A funeral service celebrating Wayne's life and legacy will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, March 26th, at First Baptist Church in Eastland. In this time of remembrance, we honor Wayne's life of service, love, and devotion to his family and community. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.