Bruce Bradley

Bruce E. Bradley, 78, of Chesapeake, Virginia, passed away peacefully on April 11, 2026.

Bruce was born on June 12, 1947, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the son of the late Lucille Evans and Benjamin Bradley. He proudly served his country in the United States Army, attaining the rank of Staff Sergeant. During his military service, he served in the Vietnam War, where he was wounded in action and honored with the Bronze Star, Purple Heart, and Air Medal for his bravery and dedication.

Following his military retirement, Bruce resided in Texas before making his home in Virginia Beach, Virginia. There, he continued his career in federal service and later worked for Home Depot, from which he also retired.

Bruce was devoted to his family and was married for 55 years to the love of his life, Frankie L. Bradley, whom he met while stationed at Ft. Benning, GA. Together, they built a life rooted in love, resilience, and commitment. During his years of service, Bruce and his family also lived overseas, including time spent in Hawaii and Germany, experiences that enriched their lives and broadened their horizons.

He was preceded in death by his infant daughter, Shawanda Lynn Bradley, who passed at three weeks old, and his brother, Gregory Evans. He leaves to cherish his memory his beloved wife, Frankie; his daughters, Shantae "Frog" Wooten (Thomas Wooten) and Tanisha "Tumbleweed" Bradley; his grandson, Christian "Mo" Bradley; and grand cat, Aurora Jayne "Rory", all of Chesapeake, Virginia. He is also survived by his sister, Bonita Robinson of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; his sisters-in-law, Geraldine Crowell, Corrie Battle, and Juanita Dawson; and his brother-in-law, Kenneth Word, all of Columbus, Georgia.

Bruce was a loving uncle and a father figure to many nieces and nephews, as well as a devoted brother-in-law whom he raised as his own. He was a loyal friend to many and will be remembered for his warm spirit, generosity, and sense of humor.

In his leisure time, Bruce had a passion for flea markets, thrifting, and finding hidden treasures, enjoyed visiting casinos, and loved traveling and adventuring with his family. These moments brought him great joy and created lasting memories. Bruce will best be remembered as the Converse and tube sock combo wearing king.

The family would like to extend special thanks to his honorary brother, Warren Pigram and his wife, Faye, of El Paso, Texas; Tim and Margie Newlander; Curtis and Margaret Dawson; Tonya Dixon and Debra Ware; Frank and Cynthia Howell; and the many church family members and friends for their love, support, and kindness during this time.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Beach Funeral Services, 4456 Bonney Road, Virginia Beach, Virginia. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, May 7, 2026, at 11:00 AM at New Hope Baptist Church, 395 Old Great Neck Road, Virginia Beach, Virginia. Interment will follow at Albert G. Horton, Jr. Memorial Veterans Cemetery in Suffolk, Virginia.

Bruce’s legacy of strength, love, and dedication to family and country will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.