Francis Edward Bradley Jr., 88 years old, of Southaven , MS passed away on February 15, 2022. He was born on March 29, 1933 in Memphis, TN. Francis (Frank, Bubba, Brad, Chief, Poppy) graduated from Memphis Catholic High School in 1953. He was married to Betty Virginia Hall on July 4, 1953 until her passing in September, 2012.

Francis served in the US Army Signal Corp during the Korean War for approximately 18 months. He established a long career with the Memphis Fire Department starting with the Alarm Office (Communications), Training, Fire Prevention, and finally as an Administrative Chief (Assistant Deputy Director) until his retirement after 30+ years of service.

Francis was predeceased by his parents : Francis E. Sr. and Thelma Kroeger Bradley; his sister Mary Kay Abrams: and his daughters, Susan Diane Bruch (Allan) and Betty Gail McKnight (Stan). He was married for almost 60 years to his wife Betty , and they had 5 children .

He is survived by his sisters : Dorothy Edwards (Bill) and Patricia Bradley; his sons John Joseph (Kellye), Mark Steven (Jana) and Francis (Brad) E. III (Nancy); his grandchildren: Brooke McKnight, Phillip McKnight (Lyla), Christopher McKnight, Allison Bruch Scruggs (T.J.), Al Bruch (Miranda) , Andrew Bradley, Lindsey Bradley, Dana Bradley, Benjamin Bradley, and Sarah Bradley; and his great grandchild ren: Kamryn Ruiz, Luke Scruggs , and Sarina McKnight.

"Poppy" as most of the family affectionately called him in his later life lived a very full life. He cherished his role as a son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and friend to many. He could hardly go anywhere without someone who knew him from the many stages of his life. He was involved in so many aspects of his family , service, and career that is too long of a list to expand on in his very full and independent life. A few are Men's Club and Athletics of St. Theresa Little Flower School and Church, Knights of Columbus #616, and ACRE (Association of City Retired Employees). He lived life on his own terms and was loved and respected by all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Jude Hospital for Children in honor of Francis E. Bradley Jr.