John Dow "Jay" Bradford Jr., of Smyrna, passed away at his home on Monday October 16, 2023. He was 72.

He was born November 7, 1950 in Cranston, Rhode Island, the son of the late John Dow Bradford and Marion E. Bradford.

He was active in the Boy Scouts as a child and his first job was cooking chicken at Gino's, a popular restaurant in Smyrna at the time. He was a graduate of Smyrna High School and later served in the Army.

He worked in the maritime industry as a dredger until he retired. Jay was a member of Local #25, and the American Legion.

He enjoyed playing bingo, darts, classic movies, and collecting Hess trucks. He also enjoyed spending time with his bonus family at the Legion. Jay had a great sense of humor.

He is survived by a sister, Deborah (Wallace) Pressley; nieces, Annalee Pressley, and Erin Bradford; nephews, Steffan (Shelby) Bradford and their son Alexander Bradford, Logan Bradford, Nathan Bradford and his wife, and Eric Bradford.

In addition to his mother and father, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Donald Bradford and Bradley Bradford.

Graveside services and burial with military honors will be 2:00 PM Monday October 23 at Odd Fellows Cemetery, Smyrna.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to American Legion Post 14, 107 W Glenwood Ave, Smyrna, DE 19977.

To leave a condolence, please click the tab marked "Guestbook".

Arrangements are by Matthews-Bryson Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Smyrna.