Sad passing of hugely respected Derry undertaker John Bradley

The late John Bradley (on left) with staff of Bradley and McLaughlins, Funeral Directors, William Street, Derry, outside St. Mary's in 2013.

John Bradley, the principal of local firm, Bradley & McLaughlin Undertakers, passed away in his Marlborough Avenue home aged 70 following an illness bravely borne.

Affectionately nicknamed “the wee bishop” due to the many occasions he was pictured in the local Press leading funerals, particularly during the ‘Troubles,’ John was widely known and hugely respected.

Having worked in the America for the former Birmingham Sound Reproducers (BSR) company, John returned home to take over the family business in 1970.

He also managed local taxi company, City Cabs, before selling out several years ago insisting that having to work long hours when managing both companies was continuing to prove difficult.

Considered a thorough professional, John demanded that the priority for all his staff centred on respect for dead and the grieving families left behind.

Son of the late Charlie and Phyllis Bradley, John is survived by a devoted wife Jean; loving daughters Caroline, Joanne and Christina and his adoring grandchildren.

He was pre-deceased by his sister Isobel and also leaves a loving brother, Alex.

John’s funeral will take place on Monday, March 13, with Requiem Mass in St. Eugene’s Cathedral at 10.00 a.m. before his burial in the City Cemetery.

May he rest in peace.