Stephen Douglas Bradford

Stephen Douglas Bradford, age 75, of Columbus, passed away at home on August 8th, 2025 following a long illness. He was born in Cincinnati, Ohio on April 18th, 1950 to the late Marvin and Betty (Hicks) Bradford. He was raised in Blanchester, Ohio where he graduated from Blanchester High School. After high school he proudly served in the United States Air Force as an Aircraft Loadmaster. After serving in the United States Air Force, he married Barbara (Riethman) Bradford on November 2nd, 1974 and was married until her passing in 2022.

Stephen loved spending time with his family, especially his three grandchildren. He spent much of his adult life serving others through volunteerism. He volunteered his time by serving as a member and the President of the West Columbus Jaycee’s for many years, and at St. Stephen the Martyr by working bingo and the annual festival, groundskeeping and custodial work. Stephen was an outdoorsman, and in his later years, he built meaningful friendships with a group of seniors that he exercised with, and spent many hours gardening and fishing.

Stephen leaves behind his three children: Patrick (Tara), Eric (Jennifer), and Stephen Jr. (Natosha); three grandchildren: Adyson, Willow and Damien; and his sister Sharon (Bradford) Ray.

Stephen was preceded in death by his parents, Marvin and Betty, and his wife Barbara.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly invites those who wish to honor Stephen’s legacy to consider a donation to the Jerry’s foundation, that helps differently-abled children to enhance their quality of life. Donations can be made on their website www.jerrysfoundation.org

A Celebration of Life will be held from 2 p.m. – 5 p.m. on Saturday, September 27th, 2025, at the Liberty Township Community Center, 21655 Main St. Raymond, Ohio 43067. A private burial of both Stephen and Barbara will be held in October at the St. Augustine Cemetery in Minster, Ohio.