March 3, 2023, 88, Goldsboro –
Bruce Edward Radford, 88, entered into his eternal reward on Friday, March 3, 2023. He was born in Greene County to the late Herman Ernest Radford and Cora Ham Radford on April 7, 1934. In addition to his parents, Bruce was preceded in death by his brothers, Junius Radford, Cornelius Radford, Preston Radford, and Albert Radford, and sisters, Myrtle Carter, Gladys Smith, Lois Hill, Geraldine Harrell, and Dixie Lee Murphy.
Following his high school graduation in 1955, he served in the United States Army before marrying his high school sweetheart. The two of them made quite the team and continued their love for their lifetime. His family grew and so did his love. His grandchildren became his world and loved any opportunity he had to spoil them.
For over 40 years, Bruce was a devoted truck driver with Town and Country, Exxon, and AmeriGas. He retired in 1999 and found plenty of things to keep him occupied. This included small-time jobs, constructing swings, and spending time with his family. And he made sure to meet friends at Hardee’s when he could.
Other than his family, Bruce’s most important relationship was with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He began attending Faith Church in 1964 and was saved in 1965. For more than 58 years, he has given his all to the Lord and done all he could to serve. He was devoted to the Lord and to his church. This became most evident in 2018 when Bruce received the Iron Man Award for Faith Church. This award is given to a man who epitomized biblical manhood. Proverbs 27:17 reminds us that “Iron sharpens iron, so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend.” This described Bruce completely.
Among the many ways he sought to serve, he was a faithful deacon for 27 years and served as a trustee and a church bus driver for years. He always looked forward to picking up the barbeque for events. He has given more volunteer hours than most realized. He was a craftsman for the Lord. Among his creations, he built the first chalkboards in Faith Christian Academy and routed the pencil grooves in the desks. He built many items used in school programs and even constructed the beautiful “JOY” that is displayed on the front lawn during the Christmas season. He constructed many swings and gliders for the school auctions. He was willing to do what it took to help the school and church. One of the most important gifts he offered was his presence. He spent many nights in the hospital sitting with church friends. Bruce was always there and could be counted on.
Bruce found a love for God’s creation in his yard and garden. His passion for keeping them immaculate was evident to anyone who knew him and visited. He was more than happy to share his bountiful harvest each year with friends and neighbors.
Ultimately, Bruce sought to do as Christ taught – Love God and love your neighbor. In all he did, he lived to do just this. Bruce can now rest from his labors and receive his heavenly reward, prepared for him.
The family will receive friends on Sunday, March 5, 2023, from 3:30 – 5:00 p.m. at Faith Free Will Baptist Church followed by a service to celebrate Bruce’s life at 5:00 p.m. in the sanctuary. Interment will be on Monday, March 6, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. in Evergreen Memorial Cemetery.
Bruce is survived by his wife of 63 years, Linda Riggs Radford; son, Rodney Edward Radford, and wife, Ellen of Archer Lodge; daughter, Rhonda R. Castleberry, and husband, Clyde of Archer Lodge; grandchildren, Emma, Seth, Pricilla, Dan, and Natalie; and sisters, Addie Lovett of Snow Hill and Betty Lou Parks of Snow Hill.
Flowers are welcome or memorials may be given in his memory to Faith Church, 1200 W. Grantham Street, Goldsboro, NC 27530.
Services are entrusted to Seymour Funeral Home and Cremation Service. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.seymourfuneralhome.com.
