Herbert was an avid sportsman who spent decades honing his craft in the deer stand, and on the water amassing an archive of experience and knowledge of the bottom land he loved and hunted. He was the one to call you if you had any questions about any number of subjects, and someone to have on your side if you ever found yourself in a squirrely predicament. Never running from the sight of hard work, Herbert was an employee of the Monticello School District in Monticello, Arkansas for 32 years. In addition to this dedicated service, he bailed more hay than he could ever tally, managed the family farm, livestock, and made many diy projects shine. There wasn't anything he couldn't repair or replace.
Herbert was the type of friend to cheer you on when you succeeded, and thoughtfully encourage you through a rough patch. Incredibly generous with his time and possessions, he would go out of his way to help friend or foe. He found humor everywhere, and it bubbled out of him onto anyone around him. His chuckles would turn into loud, hee-hawing, knee-slapping laughter. He would often encourage his grandchildren when they complained about life by saying, ''any day above ground is a good day,'' and his exuberant life was a testament to that motto. With a grateful heart, he never shied away from leading his family in prayer; and he could be found many Sunday mornings on his sun porch reading through the Sunday School lesson. It was obvious that Herbert's joy and outlook on life came from his faith in God. He was a longtime dedicated member of Rose Hill Free Will Baptist Church.
The phrase, ''they don't make 'em like that anymore,'' was surely meant for Herbert Bradley. The love and warmth he freely shared with his family and friends has forever left its mark, and we are all better for having had him in our lives.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Mabel Bradley Johns; father, Bruce Bostian; stepfather, Troy Johns; and siblings, Sidney Bostian, Ricky Bostian, Gary Bostian, Richard Bostian, Raymond Bostian and Shirley Cater.
Herbert is survived by his wife of 42 years, Donna Forrest Bradley of Monticello; daughters, Kim Bradley Caldwell (Billy Hardison) of Jackson, LA and Ashley Fenton of Monticello; siblings, J.B. Bostian of Pansy, Bobby Bostian of Green Hill, Virginia Daughtery of Rye, Lindy Lyles of Ruston, LA, Mark Bostian of Pompono Beach, FL, Mildred Hilton of Arcadia, FL, Loretta Manson and Kay Carter both of Austin, Arkansas; grandchildren, Lauren Crutchfield (Eric Wright) of Monticello, Kati Beth Wood (Michael) of Grovetown, GA, his namesake Bradley Caldwell, (Kylee) Austin Fenton and Savannah Fenton (Garrett Newton) all of Monticello; great grandchildren, Will and Harper Crutchfield, Isaac, Jonah, Hannah, Norah and Lucas Wood, Lennon Caldwell and River Newton (due on his birthday); honorary grandchild, Sam Linely; along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts and uncles who loved him dearly.
Funeral services will be 2:00 p.m. Monday, June 12, 2023, at Rose Hill Free Will Baptist Church with Rev. Dwayne Roper and Rev. Dane Hall officiating. Burial will be in Rose Hill Cemetery in Monticello. There will be a visitation Sunday evening from 5:00-8:00 p.m. at Stephenson-Dearman Funeral Home. You can sign Herbert's guestbook page at www.stephensondearman.com
Condolences(27)
Renee Tucker
Nashville, AR Saturday, June 24, 2023 Always a smile from him. A true BRADLEY man. My sweet family. U will be greatly missed by very many. Tell my mamaw Flossie & my mom Glenda HI & the rest of our family that's there. Prayers for his family & the many people who knew him.Love,
Renee Tucker
Gary and Candy Hillis
Monticello, AR Wednesday, June 14, 2023 Donna and Family, we are so sorry for your loss. Mr. Herbert was a wonderful man. We always had a laugh anytime we were talking with him. Our prayers are sent up for you guys. Love and hugs, Gary and Candy HillisLEON HOOD
Ashdown, AR Wednesday, June 14, 2023 To the family of Herbert-"Sorry for your loss", I haven't seen Herbert since I was in the National Guard with him several years ago. He was always a likable person to be around. He had an outgoing personality and was liked by everyone he was around. LEON HOOD, ASHDOWN, ARKANSASAlvin and Irma James
Monticello, AR Monday, June 12, 2023 To family: our thoughts are with you.Herbert was always fun to visit with. When we would have livestock to get out he’d be first to have us run his way to his pasture. Our prayers are with all the family. Love to all.Loretta D Manson
Austin, AR Monday, June 12, 2023 One of my biggest regrets is the lost opportunities to spend more time with family members. Herbert and I spoke of this last month. When I think of him I remember him as a teen and myself a small child riding in the back seat of Dad's car. Even today with years of aging between us, I still see a young man with the world available to explore. I know in my heart he is with Dad and and our brothers, most likely fishing. He will be missed. My heart goes out to all he touched. ❤️🩹Cliff Gibson
Monticello, AR Monday, June 12, 2023 I have vivid memories of Herbert and Earnest cutting hay on my farm and elsewhere about Drew County. They were like 6 and 7. When you saw one, you typically saw the other, and both always had a really good attitude, and smiles on their faces. The world will be a poorer place without them, but heaven will be much improved. Lisa and I send our heartfelt condolences to Donna and family.Pat Matthews
Maumelle, AR Monday, June 12, 2023 Donna, l am so sorry for your loss of Herbert. You all had a wonderful marriage. i appreciate the friendship both of you showed to Tommy. You will be in my thoughts and prayers at this time.Pat Matthews
Sharon Shook McIntyre
Monticello, AR Monday, June 12, 2023 Dear Donna & Family,I am so sorry to hear of the loss of Herbert. He was a very nice person and always the same every time I saw him over the years. Please know that you and your entire family are in my thoughts and prayers.
In Christian Love,
Sharon
Mike Griffith sr
Cottonwood, AZ Sunday, June 11, 2023 Sorry for the lost Herbert was a good man and friend he will be miss by all Prayers for allTracy, Monica and Haisley Nichols
Warren, AR Sunday, June 11, 2023 Sorry for your loss. Praying for you during this difficult time.Ralph Hunter
Monticello, AR Sunday, June 11, 2023 Sorry to hear Herbert passed away. He always found a laugh in whatever you were talking about. He had been a friend to me for over 50 years and he will be missed. Sorry for your loss family but heaven is a brighter place today because he’s thereRobert & Carolyn Byrd
Warren, AR Sunday, June 11, 2023 So sorry for your loss. He was a kind and friendly man. Always was so polite when he saw you. We will keep you all in our thoughts and prayers.Pat Matthews
Maumelle, AR Sunday, June 11, 2023 Donna, I am so sorry for your loss of Herbert. You all have had a wonderful marriage. You and Herbert were such good friends to Tommy and I will always appreciate it. You will be in my thoughts and prayers.Pat Matthews
Whittney Adair Mitchell
Warren, AR Sunday, June 11, 2023 Mrs Donna and family I am so sorry to hear about Mr Herbert. I am sensing you love and prayers, he was a very special man! I love you all!Lavon Story Weatherford
Yorktown, AR Sunday, June 11, 2023 Donna I am so sorry to hear about Mr.Herbert’s passing. Praying for you and your family.Pat Athey
DeQueen, AR Sunday, June 11, 2023 Herbert Leon was always a big brother to us all. We loved him . He loved to fish an was good at it. He will be missed by many. RIP cousinPhillip Adair
Reddick, FL Sunday, June 11, 2023 Donna, please accept my deepest condolences for the passing of your dear husband Herbert. I never had the pleasure to meet Hebert but Cullen always spoke highly of him. Proverbs 22:1...A good name is better have than riches. May God's blessings of comfort be upon you and your family for he is always faithful. Philippians 1:21 "To live is Christ, to die is gain" - May the Lord's best surround you,Gloria Ryburn
Monticello, AR Sunday, June 11, 2023 Donna I am so sorry !! Prayers for you and all the family , Herbert was loved by all ,as you are.There are no words just know I care.James and Kathy Berry
Monticello, AR Sunday, June 11, 2023 Bradley FamilyWe are very sad for the loss of Herbert. Our friendship goes way back to Enon Church days and our good fellowship with Herbert. Over the years he was always happy to see us as we were to visit with him. He was just a very special person to everyone.
Herbert will be missed by all who knew and loved him. Our prayers are with the family.
James and Kathy
Lee Ann McDaniel
Monticello, AR Sunday, June 11, 2023 Dear Donna and family,My love and prayers are with each of you.
Lee Ann
Jason T Brown
Jenks, OK Sunday, June 11, 2023 Herbert was an amazing man. He and Donna always treated me like a son. I still have many fond memories of fishing, hunting, trapping hogs, feeding cows, and baling hay. He always took the time to show me the right way to do things and I always knew without a doubt that he really cared. He was a great example for me on how to teach and raise my own sons. That's leaving a legacy, and I know he heard "Well done good and faithful servant" in Heaven! My sincere prayers & condolences to Donna, Ashley, and the entire family.Danny and Brenda Adair
Warren, AR Saturday, June 10, 2023 Prayers for your family during this time.Betty Bradley-Russell
Monticello, AR Saturday, June 10, 2023 Prayers for healing! Donna, Kim, Snewks and family I am so sorry to hear about our sweet Herbert. He will surely be missed.Susan Stephenson Smith
Little Rock, AR Saturday, June 10, 2023 Donna, my heart hurts so much for you. I am so sorry for your loss. Herbert was a friend to all just as you have been since we were in high school together.Herbert used to kid me in the summers because I worked in my room so much. He told me “ I know why you’re up here. You want to grab maintenance first in your room”! Actually, he was pretty clever because he was right! I’m glad I had the chance to know him. I know you will miss him. I’m glad his pain is over and he is now in the arms of Jesus. Love you my friend, Susan
Jo Ann Smith-Lee
Monticello, AR Saturday, June 10, 2023 Herbert Bradley had a heart of gold and he will be truly missed. His smile was so affectionate and many years ago when I was little girl he drove my bus and took very good care of me. Love you Mr. BradleyBeverly and Larry Stevenson
St Charles, MO Saturday, June 10, 2023 Donna and family, we were so sorry to hear of Herbert’s death. He was such a great guy and loved life. He has gained his angel wings and resting in Heaven and no more pain and suffering. May God give you comfort and strength through the days ahead. You all are in our prayers.Kay Worbington
Monticello, AR Saturday, June 10, 2023 Dear Family, I am so sorry about Herbert. I don't know anybody who was more well-liked that he was. He had a great personality. He and Kenny were good friends and made lots of memories at the deer camp. They hunted together for years. They also crappie fished together. You all have my prayers of comfort at this sad time. Kenny often called Herbert - A' Bear. I guess he was trying to sound French.