Marie Bradford

Obituary For Marie Bradford

Marie Garnette Bradford was born July 4, 1931, at 1661 Latham Street, Memphis, Tennessee. She was the middle child of five children, born to William and Lucille Bradford.

Her education began at Lincoln Elementary, and she was a graduate of Booker T. Washington High School, LeMoyne College, and Boston University. She also did further graduate study at the University of Tennessee. Her studies’ focus was Elementary Education and Guidance.

Ms. Bradford was a teacher in the Memphis City Schools fulfilling a life-long dream, and later became a guidance counselor at Riverview Junior High, where she remained until retirement. After retiring, she became a caregiver for her immediate family.

Marie was a life-long member of Martin Temple Memorial CME Church. She was a member of the Callie Lewis Sunday School Class and served fifty years as superintendent of the children's department Sunday School, and at one time, President of the Missionary Society.

Marie was also active in civic and community affairs. She was a charter member of Girl Friends, Inc., 65-year member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Chaplain of the Wellington-Shadowlawn Neighborhood Association, member of the Red Hatters, and at one time, served as President and Chaplain of JUGS, International, Inc. Because of her exemplary service, the National Chapter named an award in her honor, entitled, “The Marie Bradford Award,” which is presented every two years at the National Convention to a member with outstanding service.

After living a long and fulfilling life, she leaves to cherish her memories her nieces, Michelle and Maria Clay; her god-sons, Freddie Criss, Randy Chandler, and the Branch Brothers; and god-daughters, Wilmetta (Willie) McGlathen and Judge Jayne Chandler.

A public viewing is scheduled for Friday April 4, 2025 from 4pm until 6pm at R. S. Lewis Funeral Home 2944 Walnut Grove Rd. Service of celebration will be 10am Saturday at Martin Memorial Temple C.M.E. Church 65 S Parkway W with burial to folloe in Calvary Cemetery 1663 Elvis Presley Blvd.