Mary Bradberry

Mary was the embodiment of strength, independence, faith, and unconditional love. A God-fearing and ambitious woman, she never met a stranger and was always willing to lend a listening ear or a helping hand to anyone in need. Her gentle spirit and generous heart touched every life she encountered Family was the center of Mary’s world. From childhood, lovingly known as “Marystine,” she embraced the responsibility of caring for those around her. That devotion only grew stronger as she matured, extending her love, support, and guidance not only to her family but also to countless friends. Whether her love came softly or through tough love, it was always rooted in sincerity. Mary was born on September 5, 1954, in Cascilla, Mississippi, to Birdie Mae Clay-Golliday and James Coleman. Guided by a deep spiritual foundation, Mary accepted Christ at an early age and was baptized at Union Grove Missionary Baptist Church under Rev. Hester. Her love for God continued to flourish when she later joined Family Altar Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Bishop Jennie Pettis, where she became a faithful servant of God. She served joyfully as a Sunday School teacher and as a missionary, reaching out to the sick, shut-in, and anyone in need of compassion. Mary’s life was marked by perseverance and ambition. She moved from Blytheville, Arkansas to Chicago. She worked as a waitress at Pine Valley Restaurant before becoming one of the few African-American women welders, a role in which she excelled for many years until a work injury led to her retirement. Retirement did not slow her spirit—Mary went on to earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice from ITT Technical Institute, followed by a Master’s Degree from Grand Canyon University. Her dedication to self-improvement inspired everyone around her. Mary shared a union with her husband, Sam Bradberry, and together they welcomed one child, Samuel Bradberry. Her love for her son was boundless—full of sacrifice, guidance, and unwavering support. That love multiplied with the arrival of her three grandsons, each giving her renewed purpose and joy.Mary’s transition reunited her with many cherished loved ones: her mother Birdie Mae Clay-Golliday; father James Coleman; husband Sam Bradberry; sisters Joyce Golliday, Betty Golliday, and Joanna Bodie; and brothers William Golliday, L.B. Triplett, J.W. Golliday, Joe Lee Clay, Gregory Black, and Elbert Coleman.She leaves to forever cherish her memory: her devoted son Samuel Bradberry; her grandchildren Mahari Thatch, Samuel Bradberry Jr., and Jacob Bradberry; her sisters Lucille Golliday-Gordon, Bobbie Jean Golliday, and Dannie Golliday-McDuffy; her brother Charles Golliday; and a host of loving nieces, nephews, godchildren, extended family, church family, and friends who will deeply miss her radiant presence.Mary’s life was a testament to faith, resilience, and love. Her legacy will continue to shine in every heart she touched.