Sam William Bradley

Obituary For Sam William Bradley

Fairfax, South Carolina

~OUR BELOVED SAM WILLIAM BRADLEY~

Sam William Bradley was born on January 27, 1937 to his proud parents, Laura Brunson Wright and John D. Bradley in Hampton County, South Carolina. He was the only child born to this union, Sam, affectionately known as Billy, was raised by his parents, grandparents, and stepfather, Elder David Wright.

As a child, teenager, and young adult, Billy attended Second Baptist Church and Jackson Branch Missionary Baptist Church in South Carolina. He also worshipped for many years at the United House of Prayer for All People in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Billy was very knowledgeable and well versed in Holy Scriptures from the Bible. Once Billy stopped visiting hometown churches, he began watching various televangelists to hear their Word of God. Some of those pastors included but were not limited to Pastor Creflo Augustus Dollar, Jr. and Bishop T.D. Jakes, Sr.

In 1955, Billy enlisted in America's Navy and served his country on active duty until 1957. Shortly after receiving his Honorable Certificate of Discharge from Active Duty in the Navy, Billy joined the United States Navy Reserve and participated in its rigid program until 1963. Billy's formal education was limited in the classroom because he had to work on the farmlands under the direction and supervision of his grandparents, Reverend Sam and Lizzie Brunson. However, Billy gained a wealth of knowledge and wisdom while sailing around the world during his tour of duty in the Navy. He was also insightful, street smart and attentive to details. Billy was a lifetime member of VFW Post 7607 in Fairfax, South Carolina.

When Billy returned to Philadelphia after serving his country, he hit the ground running to work on various construction sites. He used his know-how, labor and skills to assist co-workers in building high-rise office and residential buildings including a well-known hotel in Philadelphia.

In 1980, Billy returned to Fairfax, South Carolina with his mother and son, Anthony Bradley, while living in Fairfax. Billy continued to work in the construction industry. He worked for both the late Deacon Quillie Devore Construction Company and Georgia Pacific Construction Company in Varnville, South Carolina where he retired. After a hard day's work, Billy relaxed and settled down by watching Wrestling and Football. He used to cheer on the Eagles while living in Philadelphia.

Billy was well known in the Town of Fairfax, especially at Bert's. He also had fun hanging out underneath the tree in Brunson with some of his special friends. In addition to his hang out spots, Billy would join his friends at the White House in Fairfax for a cookout and/or to play cards while catching up on the latest community news.

Billy was a very talented, soft-spoken and hardworking gentle man who cherished his family and friends. Billy, our true warrior, was a strong and courageous man who did not let his illness define him. In order to survive his life challenges, Billy kept getting up and doing what he needed to do for himself. No matter what Billy was going through, he would stay positive by saying "I'm doing fine".

On Thursday, February 20, 2020, at his residence Billy transitioned from Labor to Reward. His parents, stepfather, grandparents and son, Anthony Bradley will greet him as he enters his new life.

Billy leaves to cherish his fond memories, a very special friend and caregiver, Hazel Fredrick and her family; a maternal uncle James Brunson (Mildred); a maternal aunt, Alice Brunson and countless cousins nieces, nephews and friends.

Services will be held Saturday, February 29, 2020, 2:00 P.M., at M.F. Riley's Memorial Chapel, Fairfax,SC.; Rev. Gilber Hill; Officiating.

Calling Hours will be held Friday, February 28, 2020, 1:00 P.M. - 7:00 P.M.; at M.F. Riley's Memorial Chapel, Fairfax,SC.

Family and friends are gathering at the home located at 314 Pickens Avenue North, Fairfax,SC.

Remember to keep the Bradley Family lifted up in prayer.

You may email condolences at: mfrileysfuneralhome@yahoo.com

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