Richard "Brad" Bradley Ryals

Brad was raised in rural Cherokee County—calling home everywhere from Hulbert to Briggs. The creeks, pastures, and woods of the countryside weren’t just where he grew up, they were where he felt the most peace. As a young boy, Brad was baptized in the creek near Blue Springs Baptist Church. As an adult, he continued to find comfort and clarity in those same waters—fishing his favorite spots, surrounded by nature.

Brad was a skilled electrician, known for his grit and kindness. A jokester at heart, Brad loved making people laugh and could light up any room he entered. Whether riding his dirt bike, fishing at local ponds, or sharpening knives with expert hands, Brad found joy in simple things. Music was his constant companion, especially country, but he appreciated all genres and the stories they told.

Brad took pride in being the father of his son, Logan. In 2021, he met Robbie Barnes, his better half. Together, they shared laughter and consideration for each other.

Brad was also fiercely competitive when it came to pool and horseshoes, often trying to outmatch his dad—something they both treasured. He could always charm his mama into making his favorite pork fried rice with just a grin. As the youngest child, Brad held a special place in everyone’s heart, and his siblings doted on him accordingly.

Brad is survived by his parents, Jackie Dale Ryals and Tracy Jeanette Bibb of Tahlequah; his beloved son, Logan Ryals of Tahlequah; his sisters, Ashley Potter of Tahlequah, Oklahoma, and Crystal Calixto-Arce and husband Moises of Lewisburg, Tennessee; his brother, Steven Ryals of Tahlequah, Oklahoma; and his grandmother, Jewel Loftin of Tahlequah, Oklahoma. He is also survived by his uncle, James Ryals and wife Kim; nephews Esguin, Aiden, and Bryce; nieces Kiarra and partner Miles, “Favorite Niece” Luisa and friend Alejandro, as well as nieces Alarys, Lacreda, Zoey, and Ja’Kenzie; and his great-nephew, Nash.

He was preceded in death by his Gram, Bernice Bibb; his Papa, Donald Ryals; his grandfather, Kenneth Bibb; and his niece, Savannah Ryals.

A funeral service to celebrate Brad’s life will be held on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, at 2:00 PM at Reed-Culver Funeral Home, 117 West Delaware Street, Tahlequah, Oklahoma. He will be laid to rest at Hulbert I.O.O.F. Cemetery in Hulbert, Oklahoma.

Pallbearers will be Donnie Sellman, Joshua Lindholm, Matt Cordell, Richard Henson, Alejandro Marquez, Brandon Hembree, Wade Ritchie, and Hayden Hughes. Honorary pallbearers include James Ryals, Esguin Bocanegra, Aiden Yebra, and Steven Ryals.

Brad will be remembered for his goofy laugh, kind heart, and the light he brought to every room. He will be missed deeply and loved always.