

Born on November 19, 1970, in Longview, Texas, Stephen was the cherished son of Walter and Gayle Bradburn. In 1971, the family relocated to the Houston area, and a few years later, settled on Neff Street in Sharpstown—a neighborhood where Stephen’s warm heart, quick smile, and easy laugh helped him form friendships that lasted a lifetime.
Stephen attended Sutton Elementary, Jane Long Junior High, and Sharpstown High School, where he proudly played in the Sharpstown Apollo Marching Band. His time in the band brought him lasting joy and camaraderie, and music continued to hold a special place in his heart throughout his life.
Stephen’s curiosity and drive led him to pursue higher education at Texas Tech University, the University of Texas at Arlington, Houston Community College, and the University of Houston. Even as a high school student, his strong work ethic was evident when he began working at an auto parts store—an industry that would become both his passion and lifelong career. For the past 15 years, he proudly served at Jeff Haas Nissan of Tomball, where colleagues and customers alike admired his integrity, deep knowledge, and unwavering commitment to excellence.
It was during his time at Sam White Motor City that Stephen met the love of his life and his future wife, Cathy Lyzzette Rodriguez. The two shared 28 wonderful years together—partners in every sense of the word—building a marriage rooted in love, laughter, and mutual devotion. They were married on October 11, 2001, in Harris County, Texas, and together created a home filled with warmth and unwavering support. Their greatest blessing was their daughter, Heather Nicole Bradburn, whom Stephen adored beyond measure. To Heather, he was not only a devoted father but a steadfast role model—gentle, patient, and endlessly proud of her every accomplishment.
Stephen is survived by his loving wife, Cathy; his beloved daughter, Heather; his devoted parents, Walter and Gayle Bradburn; and his brother, Michael, and wife, Laura, along with their two daughters. He is also survived by his aunt, Hazael Taylor, and her children, Wes, Laura, and Ginny, as well as many extended family members and dear friends who were blessed to know and love him.
A celebration of Stephen’s life will be held at Katy Funeral Home, where family and friends will gather to share memories, laughter, and stories that capture his kindness, humor, and quiet strength. Those who knew Stephen will remember him as a man of deep compassion, steadfast responsibility, and unwavering devotion to his family and friends.
His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched with his generosity, warmth, and gentle spirit. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Stephen’s memory to the M.D. Anderson Cancer Center of Houston, whose dedicated care and support meant so much to him and his family.
SHARE OBITUARYSHARE
v.1.18.0