Richard J. Bradley, great storyteller
Richard J. “Dick” Bradley, 86, of Dagsboro, formerly of Wilmington, and Philadelphia, Pa., passed away Thursday, Sept. 30, 2021, at his home surrounded by his loving family.
He was born March 22, 1935, in Philadelphia, son of the late Frank Bradley and Marie (Bond) Bradley. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Francis Bradley; two sisters, Marie Bradley and Catherine Bradley; and a daughter-in-law, Sally Bradley. Dick is survived by his wife of 64 years, Rita (Martella) Bradley; three children, Richard Bradley (Connie), Michael Bradley and Marlene Bradley. Dick was very proud of his grandson, Connor Bradley. He is also survived by his brother, Joseph Bradley (Gail) and two sisters, Joanne Bradley and Veronica Keegan (Frank).
Dick was a graduate of West Catholic High School in Philadelphia. His career spanned 32 years with Eastern Airlines and three years with Midway Airlines. Dick was an avid Eagles fan and golfer. He ran the Indian River Senior Center Golf Group for 21 years. He was also a former president of the St. Ann Men’s Club and a eucharistic minister at St. Ann and Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church. Dick was a great storyteller who was loved and respected. He was a trusted friend and father figure to many. He loved life and always ended his phone calls with his saying, “Keep Smiling.”
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:30 a.m., Thursday, Oct. 7, at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, 35318 Church Road, Frankford, where a viewing will begin at 10 a.m. Interment will follow at Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Millsboro.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions in Dick’s name to St. Ann Catholic Church, 691 Garfield Parkway, Bethany Beach, DE 19930.
Online condolences may be sent by visiting www.melsonfuneralservices.com.
