Richard was a long-time resident of Brant Beach. It was on a blind date one summer night in Brant Beach when he met his future bride and the love of his life Patricia Magner at Wida’s Restaurant and Hotel. Pat said she knew she had met the one, with his blue eyes, smile, and kind manner. After being summer residents, they would eventually call Brant Beach home for over 50 years. They had the perfect balance and commitment between them to create a happy home in which they raised seven children alongside grandma Magner and welcomed 15 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Beloved husband of Patricia Bradley (nee– Magner). Loving father of Thomas Bradley (Nicole), Patricia Seddon (Jeffrey), Wade Bradley (Donna), Pamela Bradley, Michael Bradley (Elizabeth), Lynn Bradley, and Kymm Horan (Timothy). Adored grandfather to Jeffrey, Kaitlyn (Zeffen), Max (Rachel), Christine (Edward), Karlyn, Lindsay, William, Samson, Chase, Haley, Ireland, Jack, Bridget, Daniel, and Finn. Blessed great grandfather to Emerson and Shay.
Richard was born in Weehawken, New Jersey to Francis and Loretta (nee-Wade) Bradley on November 16th, 1927. He was welcomed home to Cliffside Park by his brother Francis and sister Dori. He grew up during the great depression, he learned and passed on to his own family the importance of lending a helping hand, a good day’s work, and the value of a dollar. Richard attended Cliffside Park High School; upon graduation, he enlisted in the Navy and served his country proudly during World War II. Richard also served in the US Merchant Marines during the Korean War. Once he met his future bride Patricia, he knew it was time to stay home. Richard attended St Peter’s and Rutgers Colleges. He enjoyed a 30-year career in the aerospace and defence industries as a quality assurance engineer for North American Rockwell/International. Richard received commendations for his work on space and defence programs including the Apollo, Space Shuttle, Saturn, Hubble Programs. He seldom spoke of his accomplishments but all the same, was happy to share with his grandchildren when asked to tell a story or two.
In retirement, Richard and Pat took off to travel the world with friends and family. But for Richard, the best place to be was with Pat and their family enjoying life together in Brant Beach. You could find him in his workshop creating a new project, walking Ocean Blvd to get his morning paper, sitting on the beach or swimming with Pat at sunset and attending as many activities for his children and grandchildren as he could fit in. His commitment to the St. Francis Parish grew as he attended daily mass, and volunteered at the Food Pantry and on the Parish building and grounds committee. He was a person of great faith, a kind man with a contagious smile. He shared a special humour with his grandsons and enjoyed watching his children and grandchildren go off in so many directions after “schooling”. He put the happiness of his wife and children before his own but never hesitated to tell you his opinion whether you asked or not. He led his life by example and for that, we all have a good guide.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Mass of Memoriam and celebration at St Francis Church in Brant Beach, NJ on Saturday, May 14th, 2022. Mass will begin at noon.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to three organizations directly. The St Francis Community Center Food Pantry (address: St Francis Human Concerns, 4700 Long Beach Blvd, Long Beach Township, NJ 08008), St. Francis Parish (St Francis Parish Office -Floor 2 4700 Long Beach Blvd, Long Beach Township, NJ 08008), or Beach Haven Volunteer First Aid Squad (321 Engleside Ave, Beach Haven, NJ 08008)
To leave online condolences and fond memories of Richard for the family, please visit www.shinnfuneralhome.com
The Thos L. Shinn Funeral Home, 10 Hilliard Dr., Manahawkin, NJ was entrusted with the arrangements.
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