John Kenneth Bradford's Obituary
John Kenneth Bradford, age 64, passed away peacefully on December 9, 2025. Born on March 10, 1961, in Flint, Michigan, to Jack and Onalee Bradford, John lived a life defined by love, loyalty, and laughter.
A service will be held at 10:30 AM on Saturday, January 24, 2026, at Our Lady of Light in Estero, Florida. An additional service will be held in Mt. Morris, Michigan, at a later date.
A natural athlete, John earned First Team All-State honors in both football and baseball and was later inducted into the Mt. Morris and Hillsdale Athletic Halls of Fame. Throughout his life, he formed lasting friendships with nearly everyone he met, but none more treasured than those with his childhood friends, Kevin Warren and Daren Kinder. Their bond ran as deep as family, and they often referred to one another as brothers.
In 1987, John moved to Ft. Myers, Florida, where he met the love of his life. He was the cherished husband of Sherri Bradford for 29 wonderful years (34 together) and the proud father of three children. His greatest joy came from his grandchildren, whose lives he enriched with his warmth, humor, and steady presence.
John found happiness in life’s simple pleasures—being on the water with family and friends, cheering on his beloved Michigan State Spartans, and spending cherished time during his favorite week of the year on the family vacation to Norris Lake in Tennessee.
Raised in a Catholic family, John carried a strong and enduring faith that deepened as he grew older. His relationship with God offered him comfort and peace, and he found strength in the belief that he would one day be reunited with the loved ones who went before him.
John was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Greg Bradford; and his nephew, Greg Bradford Jr.
He is survived by his loving wife, Sherri Bradford; daughters Celeste Nelson (Darrin) and Tara Jones (Jake); son Braeden Bradford; and his seven beloved grandchildren: Luke, Makinley, Landon, Adelyn, Dylan, Emma, and Sawyer. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and cousins, all of whom held a special place in his heart.
The family is forever grateful for the gift of life John received through an anonymous organ donation. This selfless act granted his loved ones additional precious time with their husband, father, papa, uncle, cousin, and friend. Please consider becoming an organ donor.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Donate Life Florida: https://donatelifeflorida.org
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