Stephen J Bradley

Stephen Joe Bradley, 56, of Clark, Missouri, passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by his family on Friday, August 7, 2026.

Stephen was born on January 19, 1970, to Bennie L. Bradley and Bonny J. Bradley. He married his high school sweetheart, Carla J. Bradley on July 11, 1992, and just celebrated their 34th wedding anniversary.

At the age of 18, Stephen began working for A.P. Green in Mexico, MO, and purchased his first home in Sturgeon, MO. He planned to retire from A.P. Green, but after 14 years the plant unfortunately shut down. Stephen worked several other jobs, meeting many friends along the way, until eventually finding a passion for logging. This led to him working with his son, Dalton, and enjoying every day together.

Stephen had a multitude of talents. He was truly a “jack of all trades” and a master of all as well. No matter what it was, if he wanted to do something, he would do it and do it well. If there was ever anything he was unsure about, he learned how to consult YouTube (thanks to his son Dalton). He could work on cars, build furniture, chainsaw carvings, fix anything that was broken, widdle sculptures, and renovate homes. Never once did he want to benefit from his talents but was happy to use them to help the people he loved. He also had many hobbies he enjoyed including antiquing with his wife, restoring vintage vehicles, and golfing. His favorite pastime was anything he could do in the woods, including hunting, fishing, as well as arrowhead and shed hunting. If you had the pleasure of going into the woods with Stephen, know how special you were to him. He reserved this for his favorite people.

Stephen took his roles very seriously. Husband, father, papa, son, brother, and friend. Being a grandpa was one of his greatest honors in life. No matter what kind of day he was having, seeing Gabe and Kit always made it a good day.

Stephen is survived by his wife, Carla of Clark, MO; mother, Bonnie of Clark, MO; brother, Bennie Van Bradley (Lora) of Moberly, MO; daughter, Mackenzie Nordwald (Austin) of Paris, MO; daughter in law, Jacie Bradley (Jerry “Bub) of Jefferson City, MO; and grandkids, Gabe and Kit Nordwald; as well as several nieces, nephews, cousins, in laws, extended family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, Bennie; father-in-law, William “Bill” Parrish; sister, Bonnie Lee Bradley; and son, Dalton.

If you had the pleasure of knowing Stephen, you will never forget his infectious laugh, endearing sense of humor, and his strong faith. He will be dearly missed.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Stephens honor to: Chapel Grove Cemetery in Clark, Missouri.

Visitation for Stephen will be held on Thursday, August 13, 2026 from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Pathway Millard Family Funeral Chapel. Funeral services will be on Friday, August 14, 2026, beginning at 10:00 a.m. Burial will follow at Chapel Grove Cemetery in Clark, Missouri.