Elaine Marie Bradshaw

Elaine Marie Burns Bradshaw, age 96, passed away peacefully at her home in Alpharetta on August 19, 2026. Elaine was a dedicated wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, whose easy laugh and loving attentiveness made everyone around her feel at home.

Born on January 2, 1930, in St. Albans, New York, Elaine attended Dominican Community High School before commuting into New York City to work as a secretary. She met the love of her life, Bob, during a day at Jones Beach with friends, and the two were married at St. Paschal Baylon Church on November 11, 1950.

Together, Elaine and Bob raised five children, with Bob’s career taking their family to Philadelphia, Chicago, and ultimately Atlanta. Her children fondly remember her devoted care to the endless tasks that create an organized and cozy home. Each morning a hot breakfast was prepared, lunches were packed, and a delicious dinner was served around 6, or a foil-covered plate was left warming in the oven for later. Elaine was very close to her siblings, treasuring every opportunity to return to New York for family reunions. She also loved to travel, accompanying Bob on business and pleasure trips, including the Bahamas, Aruba, Mexico City, Ireland, and Hawaii.

In later years, Elaine became wholeheartedly committed to the care and comfort of Bob as he struggled with dementia. While he resided at Cumming Nursing Home, she founded a rosary ministry for the residents, which she continued for many years after Bob transitioned into eternal life. Her Catholic faith was an important part of her life, and her devotion to prayer and service led her to join the Grey Nun Associates.

Elaine created a home that welcomed friends and celebrations, full of life and laughter. As her family grew to include 14 grandchildren, their spouses, and 25 great-grandchildren, she took great pride in hosting holiday gatherings and serving her famous Christmas lasagna. Elaine spent countless hours handcrafting thoughtful gifts for her loved ones - from embroidered wedding samplers and cozy afghans to handmade dolls. She enjoyed reading, gardening, and keeping her mind sharp with sudoku and jigsaw puzzles.

Elaine was preceded in death by her husband, Robert "Bob" James Bradshaw, her parents George and Sarah Malloy Burns and her siblings Edward (Lorraine) Burns, Eleanor (Rudy) Stierle, Patricia (Charlie) Murray, and Ann (Joe) Picarello. She is survived by her children Ellen (Vincenzo) DeSapio, Brad (Eileen) Bradshaw, Mary Kay (Jim) Kemp, John (Alicia) Bradshaw, and Sally (John) Nimmo and 14 grandchildren and 25 great-grandchildren.

A funeral mass will be celebrated on Thursday, August 27, at 11am at St. Brigid Catholic Church (3400 Old Alabama Rd, Johns Creek, GA 30022), preceded by a rosary recitation at 10:30 am. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Special Olympics, https://support.specialolympics.org/