William Robert Bradley

William Robert Bradley passed away October 20th, 2025 in Myrtle Beach South Carolina at a robust 89 years of age. “Bob” on his last day was apparently “Doing Bob Things” having had an active day of shopping, socializing, joking, singing…just being the joy we all knew and loved. He went for a rest, put on some Country and Western videos, and never made the dinner bell, near as we can figure. Bob was born in Port Jeff NY June 17th, 1936 to Margaret Lucille Trimble and William Bradley. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Estelle Bradley nee Bulson. He was also preceded by his dear brother Timothy Bradley.

Uncle Rob certainly had his own way of doing things. He insisted on not having a service nor an obituary. He had a personal relationship with God and felt all his good fortune was the “Man upstairs looking out for children and knaves” My uncle loved the ocean, playing guitar, sunrises, and people. He collected people like others collect jewels. For this minion I have violated his no obituary wish. It seemed improper to leave so many people wondering about him. I feel he owed them this marker (I will hopefully be forgiven). Anyone who had a meal with Bob knew that 2 hours was just getting started, 3 decent and 4 was proper. On many occasions we went for the early bird and were thrown out by the wait staff who were begging to close for the night. The night just flew by and you were a little shocked at the time. Want to drive 4 hours to Boston to get a cup of coffee? “Sure, it will give us time to talk” ---That happened.

Perhaps this is why he was so good on stage, it was always a good long time with my uncle. He overcame so much difficulty from a dicey family life, to polio as a teen and many other bumps and bruises along the way. He somehow would survive a terrible fall in 2024, push and work to rehab like no other 87-year-old I ever saw. He proudly proclaimed at dinner two weeks ago he was the same weight at the day he was discharged from the Navy. He made my wife punch his bicep which shockingly, was like a rock.

Bob’s secret to a successful life was people, they always seem to take a shine to him, and help him. I cannot count the number that stopped me to tell me how they adored my uncle over my lifetime. At our last meal together two marines came over to thank my uncle for his service. Tack another 30 minutes on to the meal, I finally had to shoo them from the table. Walking away laughing, I knew there were two more in Bob’s collection.

Uncle Rob went out strong. I hope we will all be so fortunate.

There are too many friends to mention. My sisters and I are very thankful for all the kind words and deeds given so willingly to Bob and Stella over the years.

Bob and Stella’s ashes will be spread at sea which was their wish. I am not sure where or when yet. I have set up an email to exchange any thoughts, pictures, request or if you have interest in
attending the “Navy heave -ho”

Email: MyUncleBob1936@gmail.com

Best,
Tim Jr.

Condolences may be made at www.burroughsfh.com

Burroughs Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Murrells Inlet (843.651.1440) is assisting the family with arrangements.