Larry Dean Bradley

Larry Dean Bradley, age 78 of Fordyce, passed away Tuesday, September 3, 2024 at his home. He was born February 8, 1946 in Dallas County, Arkansas.
Larry was a graduate of the Henderson State Teacher’s College, briefly coaching women’s basketball where he received the AAA Award for Outstanding Coach in Girls’ Sports for 1972-73. After leaving coaching, he went into business with his brothers where he had a successful career in the timber industry. In retirement, he continued to draw on his coaching skills by passionately supporting and guiding his granddaughter from the stands. Throughout his life, Larry was an avid deer hunter and a dedicated member of Bradley Deer Camp. He took great pride in sharing his expertise with both newcomers and seasoned hunters alike.
Larry is preceded in death by his parents, William Davis Bradley, Sr. and Luella Cupit Bradley; five brothers, Davis Bradley, Jr., Raymond Bradley, Thomas Bradley, George Alvin Bradley, Jerry Moody, Sr.; and two sisters, Mary King and JoAnn Simpson. He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Eloise Kight Bradley of Fordyce; one daughter, Michele Purtle and husband Steve of Russellville; one brother, Troy Bradley and wife Loriece of Bearden; one sister, Ramona Hearne and husband C A Ramer of Fordyce; one granddaughter, Dr. Ashton Purtle-Smith and husband Drew of Conway; and one great grandson, Beckett Dean Smith of Conway; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Graveside services will be 10:00 am Friday at Wheeler Cemetery near Fordyce. The family invites friends to gather at Wheeler Cemetery at 9:30 to visit prior to the service. Pallbearers will be Keith Humphries, Jeff Petray, Chase McCollum, Kace Humphries, Zach MacNichol and Casey Clemons. Arrangements by Benton Funeral Home of Fordyce. To sign the online register visit www.bentonfuneralhome.net .