Bradley Smith

Bradley Smith, aged 98, passed away on March 13, 2026, at AdventHealth in Manchester, Kentucky. Born on July 15, 1927, on Powder Horn in the Brightshade area of Clay County, Kentucky, he was the son of the late Flem and Ellie Taylor Smith. He was a devoted husband for nearly 61 years to his late wife, Edna Swafford Smith, who preceded him in death in 2013.

A U.S. Army veteran who served in Germany, Bradley was a loving father to seven children: Kathy Collins, Kenny Smith, Michael Smith, Jimmy Smith, Brenda Reece, Bobby Smith—who passed away in 2024—and Amanda Lyn Baker. He found great joy in tending his garden, a beloved pastime he continued until 2025, when he was no longer able to plant one. A devout Christian, he was the oldest member of Hubbard Missionary Baptist Church.

Bradley was preceded in death by his brothers and sisters: Dewey, George, Ted, Lester, J.B., Lillee, Axie, Dorothy, Bernice, and Pauline. He is survived by many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, some of whom will know him only through the stories and memories shared by those who loved him. He was cherished by all who knew him and will be deeply missed.