Biography:

Ralph Edward Bradbury, Sr., a beloved father, brother, grandfather and friend, passed away on June 12, 2025, shortly after watching his Arkansas Razorbacks defeat Tennessee in the NCAA baseball super regionals — a perfect final game for a lifelong Hogs fan.  

Born in Little Rock, Arkansas, Ralph graduated from Little Rock Central High School, where he was the quarterback for the football team and made lifelong friends. He went on to make a lasting impact both on and off the field as a four-year letterman, team captain and standout second baseman for the Razorbacks from 1974 to 1978, remembered for his grit, talent and love of the game. His passion for competition naturally extended to golf, where he went on to win the Pleasant Valley Country Club Championship and multiple four-ball titles alongside his beloved brother Curt Bradbury as well as with his longtime friend and golf partner Stan Payne. 

Ralph built a successful career in the trucking industry, where his hard work, leadership and charisma forged lifelong friendships. He was an active member of the Young Presidents’ Organization, served as chairman of the Arkansas Trucking Association and was proud to serve on the University of Arkansas Razorback Foundation Board. 

Known for his well-timed (and sometimes inappropriate) jokes, Ralph’s sharp wit and comic relief could light up any room. His magnetic energy naturally brought people together, and his unwavering loyalty made him someone you’d always want in your corner.

Though his presence could be commanding and even intimidating in his younger years, Ralph softened beautifully over time, especially with the arrival of his grandchildren. His greatest joy in recent years was sitting in the stands at Lillian’s softball games and Rett and Robert’s baseball games, proudly cheering them on.

Ralph was preceded in death by his parents, Betty and Curtis F. Bradbury, Sr., and his nephews, Cameron Bradbury and Henry Matthew Seale. He is survived by his daughter, Rachel Pitre (John Raymond); his son, Ralph Bradbury, Jr. (Lauren); and his cherished grandchildren: Lillian Bradbury, Robert Bradbury and Everett Pitre. He is also survived by his brother Curt Bradbury and sister-in-law Chucki, his former spouse Lee Ann Bradbury, sisters-in-law Mari Eilbott (Don) and Lila Dickey (Ted), brothers-in-law Claude Cousins (Beth) and George Cousins III, as well as beloved nieces and nephews, including Spencer Bradbury (Laura), Curt Bradbury III, Jo Ann Moss (Denny), George Cousins, IV (Linda), Katie Dudley (Robert), Chapman Cousins (Drew), and Grace Ann, Edward, Elizabeth and William Dickey. 

Ralph’s life was marked not just by his accomplishments, but by his resilience. In the past 10 years, he faced many health battles with strength, courage, humor and an indomitable spirit that inspired all who knew him. He will be remembered for his humor, his drive, his fierce love for his family and his ability to bring people together. His legacy lives on in all who had the privilege of knowing him. 

A service to celebrate Ralph’s life will be held on Wednesday, June 18, at Second Presbyterian Church in Little Rock at 1 p.m., with a reception to follow at Pleasant Valley Country Club from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to The First Tee of Arkansas or the University of Arkansas Razorback Foundation. Arrangements are under the direction of RuebelFuneralHome.com