Louis E. Bradford

Louis was born on October 18, 1928 in Shirley, AR to Phillip and Dovie (Cullum) Bradford. He was the youngest of eight siblings all who preceded him in death. He was also preceded by his beloved wife of 75 years, Alma Rollins Bradford, the love of his life.

At age 15, Louis moved from Arkansas to California, where he began his working life at the C&H Sugar Refinery. At 19, he returned to Arkansas to win the heart of his bride, marrying Alma on November 29, 1947. In 1952, Louis joined the United States Air Force, serving faithfully for 22 years. His military career took him and his family across the country and abroad—Texas, Washington, California, North Dakota, Okinawa, Maine, and finally Louisiana.

Throughout his service to his country, Louis remained steadfast in his service to the Lord. He was ordained as a deacon in 1961 while serving at Calvary Baptist Church and continued his ministry at every station the Air Force assigned him. In 1972, he was stationed at Barksdale Air Force Base, where he and Alma found their spiritual home at Barksdale Baptist Church. Louis served as a deacon there for 45 years, stepping down in 2017 at the age of 89 due to hearing loss, though he remained an active and devoted member.

In his later years, especially after Alma’s passing, Louis found joy and fellowship playing bean bag baseball every Monday with dear friends from Barksdale Baptist Church. His gentle spirit, unwavering faith, and love for God and country were evident in every chapter of his life.

Known affectionately as Louis, Dad, Grandpa, and Bud, he leaves behind a legacy of humility, devotion, and kindness that will be cherished and emulated by all who knew him.

Louis is survived by his sons, Kenton Bradford and wife Glenda of Tampa, Florida, and Edward Bradford and wife Joan of Bossier City, Louisiana; five grandchildren, Kourtney Seubert and husband Brett, Kristina Posheck and husband John, Jeff Bradford, Jennifer Sattler and husband Jared, and Joey Bradford and wife Lindsey; and thirteen great-grandchildren. He is also remembered fondly by many nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends.

A visitation will be held on Monday, September 1, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at Hill Crest Memorial Chapel, 601 Hwy 80, Haughton, Louisiana 71037. A Celebration of Life will follow at 11:00 a.m., with interment at Hill Crest Memorial Park.