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Gretchen Bradley

1928 - 2025

Gretchen Bradley obituary, 1928-2025, Richmond, VA

BORN

1928

DIED

2025

UPCOMING SERVICE

Service

Aug. 21, 2025

10:00 a.m.

St. Matthews Episcopal Church

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Gretchen Bradley Obituary

We announce the peaceful passing of Gretchen Bradley on August 16, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family. At 97 years, Gretchen lived a life of extraordinary purpose, resilience, and joy in Richmond, VA.

She was the daughter of the late Arthur and Elizabeth Erb and was preceded in death by her cherished daughter, Judy Cahill. Gretchen's legacy lives on through her beloved children, Michael, Jennifer, and, and Bill Brown, as well as her many grandchildren, Christie Brown, Kelli Arbogast, Rachel Thoms, Josh Thoms, Gillian Brown, Camryn Brown, and Bobbi-Su Cahill.

Gretchen was a Phi Beta Kappa graduate of the College of William & Mary and a sister in the Tri-Delta sorority. She dedicated her career to serving the Richmond community as a public servant and social worker at Child Protective Services. She volunteered her time to many organizations, including the Science Museum of Virginia, Virginia House, and Maymont. She was a dedicated congregant at St. Matthew's Episcopal Church for over 70 years. She touched countless lives through her kindness and service.

Those who knew Gretchen remember her sharp wit at the bridge table, her insatiable appetite for books, and her contagious smile. Nothing brought Gretchen greater joy than gathering with her children, grandchildren, and friends at her childhood home on the York River.

A service for Gretchen will be held at St Matthew's Episcopal Church, 1101 Forest Ave, Richmond, VA 23229 on August 21 at 10:00 a.m., with a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Maymont Foundation in her memory.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Richmond Times-Dispatch from Aug. 19 to Aug. 20, 2025.

Memorial Events
for Gretchen Bradley

Aug

21

Service

10:00 a.m.

St. Matthews Episcopal Church

1101 Forest Ave, Richmond, VA

Memories and Condolences
for Gretchen Bradley

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7 Entries

Chris Bostick

Yesterday

Gretchen and I worked together for years . We were at RDSS for years and later on the state HotLine for Child Abuse.I remember her bright smile .
We all looked forward to working with GRETCHEN on holidays because of the treats she brought to work for us her coworkers.

Melanie Stoudt

August 19, 2025

Gretchen was an inspiring Tri Delta sister! I was blessed to know her for many years through the Richmond Tri Delta alumnae association.

Lela Martin

August 19, 2025

The members of GFWC Metropolitan Richmond Woman's Club were so fortunate to have Gretchen as a member. A transfer from Tri-Club Woman's Club, Gretchen participated in many of our club activities including our Halloween BINGO service social to benefit Safe Harbor. At our recent end-of-year banquet in May, members feted Gretchen on her birthday. We were glad that she was part of our group.

Kat and Charlie Rugar

August 19, 2025

Gretchen was a great neighbor and friend. Will miss her deeply. I know she had a life well lived!

Mary Ellen Olbrisch

August 19, 2025

I am so sorry for your loss. Gretchen was a good neighbor and always energetic and committed. I remember her coming and going when it was dark outside to serve the community.

Laura Bunton

August 19, 2025

I´m sad to read of Gretchen´s passing, although I know she´s with our Savior.

I was her neighbor for many years and she was the best neighbor!!!
One of God´s sweetest creations!!!
She will be greatly missed by many!!

Laura

Paul & Mary Creasy

August 19, 2025

Mary and I have known Gretchen for many years through Church. She will be missed! A wonderful lady and very active, her mind and curiosity was an inspiration to everyone. The last few years have been hard on her, but, I know now at least she is restored and will be able to be as active as she always wanted to be. Rest in peace Gretchen!

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