Floyd "Butch" Bradberry

A proud graduate of Searcy High School's Class of 1962, Floyd went on to earn a degree in Music Education from Arkansas Tech University in 1967. He dedicated the early years of his professional life to shaping young musicians as a band director in Atkins, Van Buren, and Searcy. His love of music and gift for teaching left a lasting impression on countless students and colleagues. Following his career in education, Floyd entered the field of sales before concluding his professional career as an insurance and annuity broker in Fort Smith, Arkansas.

Faith, service, and community were central to Floyd's life. He was a devoted member of First United Methodist Church in Fort Smith, where he faithfully served on numerous committees and as president of the Roundtable Sunday School Class. He was a 32nd Degree Mason, a Shriner, and an active member of the Rotary Club. His commitment to improving his community was reflected in his service on the Sparks Advisory Board and the Mt. Magazine Girl Scout Council. He was also a founding member of the River Valley Community Band, combining his passion for music with his dedication to bringing people together.

Floyd was known for his keen sense of humor, his generous spirit, and his remarkable ability to make everyone he met feel welcome and at ease. He was always ready to lend a helping hand or offer a word of encouragement. A lifelong Razorback fan, he cheered faithfully through every season, celebrating the victories and enduring the defeats with unwavering loyalty.

While Floyd possessed extraordinary patience with those he loved, he had little tolerance for favoritism or treating people differently based on status. He believed deeply that every person deserved the same dignity, respect, and fairness, and he lived those values every day.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Floyd E. Bradberry, Sr. and Blanche Burnett Bradberry; his sister, June Bradberry; and his beloved daughter, Karen Bradberry Davis.

He is survived by his loving wife, Judy Daly Bradberry, of the home; his daughter, Laura Bradberry Cunningham and her husband, Matt, of DeWitt; his granddaughter, Anna Cunningham Rice and her husband, Tanner, of Fayetteville; his grandson, Sean Cunningham of Fayetteville; his brothers, Jim Bradberry of Searcy and Bobby Bradberry and his wife, Susan, of Stuttgart; along with many cherished friends, extended family members, and all whose lives were enriched by knowing him.

Floyd's legacy is one of service, kindness, laughter, faith, and unwavering integrity. He believed in lifting others, giving generously of his time and talents, and making every person feel valued. His memory will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know and love him.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff of Ozark Rehabilitation and Nursing Home and Hearts of Hospice for the love, tireless care, and unwavering concern they showed Floyd throughout his journey. Their kindness and dedication brought great comfort to both Floyd and his family, and they will always be deeply appreciated.

A celebration of Floyd's life will held at Roebuck Chapel at First United Methodist Church at 3:00 pm on Friday, July 17, 2026. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to First United Methodist Church of Fort Smith music program.