Virgie Beatrice Bradford

Virgie Beatrice Clark Bradford was born November 20, 1931 to Frank and Queen Clark in Shongaloo, LA. She was the 12th child of 15. She attended elementary, middle, and high school there and in Haynesville, Louisiana. In 1950, she moved to Minden, Louisiana where she continued her high school education at Webster High. While in Minden, she united with Saint Rest Baptist Church. In 1952, she got the urge to venture out beyond her surroundings in “The Boot” a name often referred to the great state of Louisiana, so she moved to Houston, Texas, the “Lone Star State”. Virgie went on to further her education at Wheatley High School and Houston Community College.

On July 20, 1957, Virgie married Dan Bradford. To this union, 2 children were born, Debora and Rosalind. Not only did she marry the love of her life, she also gained 8 bonus children, 4 of which preceded her in death. Raymond Bradford, Herman Bradford, Helen Hensley and Ethel Morris.

In 1953, she found a church home in none other than New Mt Calvary Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Alford, followed by Rev. Baldridge, Pastor Willie Jones and lastly under the leadership of Pastor Christopher C. Moore. She was not able to attend church, but often live streamed. During her membership, she was involved in numerous ministries. She was President of the Mass Choir, a Sunday School teacher of “The WOW” class, she was also a faithful member of The Deaconess Board. Virgie had a strong desire for God and His people, and it showed in how she treated people in her everyday life.

No one was ever a stranger at her home. On any given day, especially on Sunday, you could find her entertaining family or friends, many times both, at her dining room table or in the den. She had such a caring, loving, and warm heart, that even her postman was known to show up for Sunday dinner. She was very active in her community, from PTA to the local Civic Club. She was loved by many and will definitely be missed. However, her legacy will continue to live on through the lives she touched.

Virgie leaves to cherish her memory: Son Michael (Marilyn) Phillips, daughters Debora “Van” (Maverick) Jackson and Rosalind (Keith) Johnson, Bonus Son Lee (Gevenia) Bradford, Bonus Daughters Margie Bradford and Mildred Gobert (Elzie Cole) all of Houston, Texas, and Bonus Daughter Bennie (Lesly) Thomas of San Antonio, Texas, Brother MC Clark of Houston, Texas, Sisters Julie Sanders and Rosie Lee Stovall of Minden, Louisiana, Pernester Williams and Helen Luke of Los Angeles, California, Granchildren, Great Grandchildren, nieces, nephew’s, a host of other relatives and friends.