Joseph Avery Bradford

Joseph Bradford ObituaryObituary published on Legacy.com by Click Funeral Home - Farragut Chapel on Mar. 6, 2026.Joseph Avery Bradford, age 89, of Knoxville, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on March 4, 2026. He was born June 7, 1936, in Thompson's Station, Tennessee.Joe was a dedicated educator who devoted much of his life to teaching and mentoring young people. After graduating from Lenoir City High School, he continued his education at Hiwassee College in Tennessee, earning an Associate of Arts degree. He later received a Bachelor's degree in education from the University of Tennessee and went on to earn a Master's degree in education in Georgia. Over the course of his career, he taught in the Anderson County School System in Tennessee and the Cobb County School System in Georgia before retiring from the profession he loved.In addition to teaching, Joe proudly served his country in the United States Air Force from 1957 to 1961. His passion for athletics and mentorship extended beyond the classroom, as he coached high school tennis and cross country for many years. Earlier in life, he was even drafted by the St. Louis Cardinals, but he chose instead to dedicate his life to his family and the calling of teaching. He had many interests and hobbies, including playing tennis, woodworking, drawing and painting, and writing. Joseph also had a deep love for music and enjoyed watching a wide variety of sports. He was a lifelong fan of the University of Tennessee and the Atlanta Braves.Joe was a faithful member of First Farragut United Methodist Church, where he taught Sunday School for many years and shared his love of music as a member of the church choir. His faith in God and devotion to the teachings of Jesus Christ were central to his life.Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Joe Bradford and Frances Williams Bradford; his sister, Martha Beth Bradford; and his son, David Alexander Bradford.He is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Brenda Sue Taylor Bradford; his daughter, Joanna Bradford; his son, Eddie Bradford (Sarah); eight grandchildren; twelve great-grandchildren; and many cousins, nieces, nephews, and other cherished family members.The family extends special thanks to his many friends, the congregation of First Farragut United Methodist Church, friends from Powers Ferry United Methodist Church, and his caring neighbors who supported Joseph throughout the years.A visitation will be held at 1:00 p.m. on March 14, 2026, at First Farragut United Methodist Church, followed by a funeral service at 2:00 p.m. The service will be officiated by Rev. Drew McCallie, Rev. Richard Edwards, and Rev. Eddie Bradford.In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to First Farragut United Methodist Church Missions.Click Funeral Home and Cremations is honored to serve the Bradford family. Condolences may be left at www.clickfh.com.To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.