Mr. William (Bill) G. Bradley, Jr graduated from this earthly life on October 29, 2023. He slipped away peacefully in his sleep with family at his side. He was preceded in death by his parents William Guy, Sr and Lucille Carter Bradley. His eldest child, daughter, Kathy Lynn Bradley Ross Powers, passed away in 2014
Billy Guy was born March 23, 1933 in Kansas City, MO. When he was three months old the family moved back to the farm in rural Higbee. Except for approximately 1-1/2 years during WWII when his parents worked in Kansas City for the war effort, Bill lived at 8471 Hwy AA, Higbee his whole life. Though he traveled extensively he would always claim that it was the best, most beautiful place in the world. He was very proud of the Missouri Century Farm that Bill and Rita owned.
Bill retired from A. B. Chance Co. in Centralia in February 1995 as the foreman of the galvanizing department for thirty-seven years. After retiring he drove cars for Kelly Motors and Missouri Auto Auction in Columbia. He was also a farmer. In his later years he loved riding his John Deere Gator over the farm with his dog riding along with him.
Mr. Bradley is survived by his wife of seventy years, the former Rita Ellen Ehrhardt of Clark, MO. The couple had four children, three of whom survive him. Denny and his wife Dawn Bradley of Higbee, Kristy and her husband Patt Rice of Lexington, NC, and David Bradley of Moberly. Family was of ultimate importance to him, especially vacations and gatherings with extended family and friends. He also leaves nine grandchildren, Aaron, Monica, Andy, Matt, Jaimee, Jackie, Chris, Kayla, and Ashlea. Fourteen great grandchildren and one great great grandson to continue to live out his loving life lessons.
Condolences may be sent to the family in care of the farm or Cater Funeral Home. If you feel led to make a memorial please consider the American Cancer Society.
A funeral service will be held Tuesday, November 21 at Cater Funeral Home Chapel.
