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BORN
1945
DIED
2020
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James Bradford Obituary
New London - SSG James R. Bradford went up to the Spirit in the sky Dec. 17, 2020, after a battle with cancer. James was American by birth, and Southern by the grace of God having been born and raised in Norfolk, Va.
James proudly served his country from 1966 to 1984 in the U.S Army and in the Army National Guard. After his active duty, he relocated to New London to be with his parents, the late Georgia Sobczyk and the late Waterford police officer, Walter Sobczyk. During which time, "some girl" backed into his car at a McDonalds; he liked her so much he married her, and they decided to take residence in Waterford. James retired after 31 years with the Waterford U.S Postal Service.
James was a true family man. He was the epitome of a momma's boy and loved growing up beside his late brothers, Arnold Creech and John H. Bradford. James leaves behind his beloved wife Jeannette; his three children and their spouses respectively: Georgia and Tim Blackwell, John and Lauren Bradford, Corinna and Edgar Roman; and his most prized possessions, his grandchildren: Tianna, Kyran, Zander, Logan and Madeline. In addition, he leaves three sisters and spouses, Virginia Bradford, Lynda and Bob Gorman and Nancy and Bob Atkins; and many in-laws, nieces and nephews.
James' loves included playing guitar, railroads, music, fast cars, road trips and Jack Daniels. James had a big spirit, an incredible smile and beautiful blue eyes to match. His presence and his humor resounded; and thus will be greatly missed. We are grateful to James for a lifetime of memories. "Yea though I walk through the Valley of the Shadow of Death, I shall fear no evil, because I am the meanest mother* in the Valley." Bruce H. Norton.
We would like to express our deepest thanks to Hospice for all of their support during this time. As James was a Vietnam Era Veteran, we would also like to express our gratitude for all the servicemen and women who proudly serve this country that James loved so much. All services will be private. The family asks in lieu of gifts, please make donations to the Hartford Healthcare at Home Hospice Care or to the Wounded Warriors Project.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for James Bradford
Sponsored by Impellitteri-Malia Funeral Home.
5 Entries
Kenny Baum
January 3, 2021
Jimmy was my friend from many years ago at Ballentine Elementary School
circa 1951-1958. We were in Christmas plays together, the safety patrols. Lost touch for years, then started emailing occasionally after we retired.
Brenda English
December 27, 2020
Prayers for the family. We were looking forward to James and Jeannette visiting us before Covid hit. He was one of the fondest memories of our children's childhood when he came to visit us in Columbia, Maryland with his guitar and great laugh. Prayers for you Jeannette, your children and the family. He definitely loved you with all his heart.
Vincent & Grissel Hodge
December 27, 2020
Sending our sincerest condolences to the family.
Jo Ann Prowell
December 27, 2020
James and I come from the same neighborhood in Norfolk. Va., Ballentine Place. Our brothers, Arnold and Jim, (my brother) ran together. James and I reconnected on facebook, and he actually showed at my home in Texas, which was a clear surprise. since i live in the country. He had such a quirky since of humor. The last time I saw him and his wife, Jeannette, was at the 50th class reunion. So sorry to hear of his passing. I miss his funny comments on some of my posts. My thoughts are with his wife and family. Sorry for your loss, JoAnn Bandelean Prowell
Debbie OMara
December 27, 2020
He will be truly missed. I am so sorry for your loss. Thoughts and prayers to your entire family. (Who am I going to tease?)
Debbie O'Mara
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Memorial Events
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