Jim O. Bradford

Jim O. Bradford, age 84, of Grove, Ok passed from this life on Friday, June 16, 2023 at his home. Jim was born on February 13, 1939, to Richard and Sarah (Fain) Bradford in Sapulpa, OK. He grew up in Watts, OK, where he graduated high school. At the age of 11, Jim lost his father and he would get up before dawn to milk the family cows before going to school. Something that motivated him later on to continue his education. On November 22, 1961, Jim married the love of his life, Earlene Waldroop in Watts, OK. Jim received a Bachelor’s Degree in Education from Northeastern State University and began his career as a math teacher at Mingo Public School. He went on to earn a Master’s Degree and in 1969 he became the youngest Superintendent in Oklahoma, serving at the Vian School District. He was the Superintendent for Canton Public School until 1977 when he and his family moved to Grove and he became Superintendent, serving from 1977 -1986. During his tenure, he influenced many students that still to this day refer to him lovingly. He valued his students and made efforts to know them and greet them in the hall every day. After his time at Grove, Jim accepted a position as the Accreditation Officer for the State Department of Education, and later began selling modular classrooms to schools. Jim was a public servant in every sense of the word, volunteering his time and efforts in many organizations, such as the Masonic Lodge, board member of the Rogers State College and the Illinois River Conservation. In Canton, OK he served as President of the Lions Club and a Boy Scout Troop Leader. Having lost his father at a young age, Jim made extra efforts to be the kind of father and granddad that he wished he had, hunting and fishing with his 2 boys and supporting their livestock shows. Jim was a an extremely intelligent man and never lost his love of learning. He had many successes in his life but always remained humble and kind. He was a hard working man and his family meant the world to him. He was also an avid OU sooner fan. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, son, Bryan Bradford and brother, Delbert Bradford. Left to cherish his memory, wife of 61 years, Earlene Bradford, son, Jim Bradford and grandson, Garrett Bradford. Visitation will be from 5-7pm Monday, June 19, and funeral services will be at 1pm Tuesday, June 20, 2023, both at Nichols-Stephens Funeral Service. Pastor Gary Bishop to officiate. Burial will be at Bell Cemetery at 3:15 on Tuesday, June 20. The family request that donations to Grrove Education Foundation for Excellence at https://geffe.org Arrangements entrusted to Nichols-Stephens Funeral Services.

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Jim O. Bradford

February 13, 1939 - June 16, 2023