November 27, 2025, 72, Princeton —

Marion Ray Bradford, 72, peacefully passed away on Thursday, November 27, 2025 at his home. Born in Wayne County on May 2, 1953, he was son to the late Thurman Bradford and Ruth Ingram Bradford.

Marion found great fulfillment in the outdoors, where he devoted much of his time to deer hunting and fishing. A true sportsman, he appreciated the quiet beauty of nature and the traditions that accompanied his pursuits. He held a deep affection for his beloved bulldogs, whose companionship brought him continual joy. In his earlier years, Marion also took great interest in horses and was an avid NASCAR fan.

Above all, Marion cherished the time he spent with his family and his devoted wife, whose presence brought him his greatest happiness. He will be remembered as a man of kindness and compassion, whose gentle manner and considerate spirit left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

Marion is survived by his loving wife of 37 years, Linda Newsome Bradford; his step-daughters, Heather Rogers and Heidi Leonard; his grandchildren, Coleman Bragg, Kaden Leonard, Aria Leonard and Amelia Leonard; his sisters, Lettie Thornton and Virginia Parrish (Danny); his brother, Ronnie Bradford (Peggy); and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Marion was preceded in death by his sons, Joseph Dewey Bradford and Jason Matthew Bradford; his sister, Lois McCullen; and his brothers, J.D. Bradford, Stacy Bradford and T.J. Bradford.

The family will receive friends on Sunday, November, 30, 2025 from 3:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. at Seymour Funeral Home in Goldsboro. No formal services will be held at this time. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Marion’s honor to Gentiva Hospice, 2309 Wayne Memorial Dr., Goldsboro, NC 27534.

The family wishes to thank Marion’s hospice nurse, Taylor Wolcott with Gentiva Hospice.

Services have been entrusted to Seymour Funeral Home and Cremation Service.