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Ms. Lillian Bradford, age 97, of Chicago, Illinois, was called home to her Lord on September 19, 2019.
The eldest of 6 children, Ms. Bradford was born to the late Joseph and Frances Clark in Chicago on March 16, 1922. She graduated from Wendell Phillips Academy High School and shortly after was wed to Mr. Burton Bradford. The couple was married for over 50 years until Mr. Bradford’s passing. Ms. Bradford was a devout Catholic and longtime member of Saint Ambrose Roman Catholic Church in Chicago. She loved her Lord and Savior and prayed daily.
Ms. Bradford had a successful career of 37 years as a Courtroom Clerk for the City of Chicago. She became the first African American woman to serve as Court Clerk in Chicago’s traffic court. She was very involved in local politics. She served as Precinct Captain and Voting Judge for many years. She was known to go door-to-door in her community encouraging others to vote and get involved with important issues. While she worked hard, she also enjoyed traveling and shopping. Considered a fashionista, Ms. Bradford was an impeccable dresser with an impressive collection of clothing, purses, hats and jewelry. Her hair was in beautiful silver ringlets. She was colorful and joyous. She was funny and full of laughter. Ms. Bradford had an affection for butterflies and the outdoors. She was an excellent cook and had perfected her roast beef recipe. She was a true people person who loved the company of others. Ms. Bradford enjoyed dancing and good music, particularly jazz. She was a peaceful soul who cherished friendships and the people around her. She was lovingly known as “Mrs. B” to many, and “Nana” to her 6 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren. In 2014, Ms. Bradford moved to Fayetteville, GA to be closer to her daughters.
Along with her parents, Ms. Bradford was preceded in death by her husband: Burton Bradford; daughter: Sheila Bradford; sister and brothers: Evelyn Dixon, Jerome Clark, Serold Clark and Charles Clark. She is survived by her daughters and sons-in-laws: Novena and Anthony McGee of Fayetteville, Margo and J Lin Dawson of Atlanta; grandchildren: David, Solomon, Shayla (Carl), Jamar (LaJuana), Jelyse and Jordan; great-grandchildren: Padraic, Kaya, Christian, Jaemin and Zion; sister: Lois Waters of Chicago, IL. In addition, she leaves behind a host of family and friends.
A memorial service will be held in Ms. Bradford’s honor at 3 PM on Sunday, September 22, 2019 at the Christian City Chapel, 7345 Red Oak Road, Union City, GA. The Bradford family is being assisted by Georgia Cremation, 1086 Hwy 54 West, Fayetteville, GA. Messages of condolence may be left at www.GeorgiaCremation.com.
Dee says
Your mother was a true angel here on earth! May you find life in her memories! Love you all,
Dee
Kenneth & Wanza Cole says
Margo … We send our heartfelt condolences to you and your family. I remember meeting your mother a few years ago at church. God will give you strength during this time and forever. Ms. Lillian is resting in the comforting arms of Our God. We love the Dawson Family.
Joyce Bellinger says
Margo, prayers for your strength and peace. You and your family are in our hearts. Joyce and Harry❤
Louie Grissom says
Margo prayers for you and your family you were so blessed to have her in your life for 97 years love you Stephen &Louie
Spike says
God has called a beautiful flower home.
Sandra Johnson says
Margo and family,
Praying that God will comfort you all during this time and the days to come.
Love,
Sandra Johnson
Belinda Shannon says
Margo – Thank you for the many times you shared your mother with your church family in North Carolina. Her sweet, sweet demeanor left a mark on everyone she met. We are sending prayers of comfort, peace and love to you and the family as you prepare to celebrate your mom’s life and lay her soul to rest.
Norener Kelley says
My heart goes out to Margo, Lin and the entire Bradford family. May you remember all the times you laughed together, knowing she is resting with the Lord. She wrote her own story, continue to add to it. Praying for all of your strength at this time. My prayers are with you.
Mantai Murry says
A dresser, kind and inquisitive soul! She loved to have fun and the McGee and Dawson families showed some of us what it takes to care for the elderly and let them enjoy life even in their nineties. Our condolences to the family. So sorry I can’t be with you during this time.
Sharon LaVigne says
Lillian was a beautiful soul, and always had a smile on her face. Lillian always had something good to say, always had a compliment ready to give! I used to love sitting with her to chit-chat and update about my family and children, and things. She will surely be missed! Rest now in heaven sweet Lillian.
Graingers and Carrillos says
Dear Margo, Lin, Jamar and LaJuana, Jelyse, Jordan and the entire Bradford Family,
We are so sorry for your loss. We continue to pray for strength and wisdom for the coming days.
We celebrate with you the joy that Mrs Lillian brought to the lives of everyone she touched. We are filled with a living hope because of the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ her Saviour (English spelling) and her Lord!
With love and prayers,