Harold Lee Bradford

Harold Lee Bradford, 91, of Hindsboro, IL passed away at 7:10 PM on Tuesday, August 25, 2026 at the Villa House, in St. Louis, MO, with his family by his side.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM on Friday, September 4, 2026 at the Edwards Funeral Home, 221 East Main St., Arcola, IL. Graveside services will be held at 10:30 AM on Saturday, September 5, 2026 in the Union Cemetery in Hindsboro, IL.

Harold was born on June 24, 1935 in Hindsboro, IL. He was a son of Chase and Joyce (Thompson) Bradford. He married Lee Rae Clancy on February 20, 1955 in Arcola, IL. She passed away on November 19, 2023.

He is survived by two daughters, Shirley Ann Johnson and her husband Gary of Eureka, MO, and Sharon Kay Guthridge and her husband Paul of Hindsboro, IL; four grandchildren, Rachel Johnson of Los Angeles, CA, Natalie Probert and her husband Matthew of Kalispell, MT, Colt Guthridge and his wife Nicole of Charleston, IL and Sarah Thomas and her husband Aaron of Hindsboro, IL, six great grandchildren, Wylder and Olivianna Probert, Hunter and Chase Guthridge, Aria and Rhiannon Thomas.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, his brother, Byron Bradford and his wife, Jean, and a great grandson, Timothy Probert.

Harold graduated from Arcola High School in 1953 and went on to build a life marked by hard work, generosity, and steady optimism. He worked in the propane industry for 40 years, serving with Harbarger Oil Company, Skelgas Propane Company, Edgar Propane and Pangburn Propane. He was known as someone who answered the call whenever he was needed. If he was called in the middle of the night during the winter, he would go, reflecting the dependable spirit that defined his working life.

He was incredibly generous and made sure everyone around him was taken care of. He was a blessing to his children and someone who approached life with a positive outlook. Harold often said, “it will be fine” or “moving right along,” and those familiar words captured his optimistic nature. He believed in getting things done on time and correctly, and he carried that sense of purpose into every part of his life.

Harold took great pride in his home and in the work of his hands. He built onto the family home, adding a two-car garage, two bedrooms, a bathroom, and a utility room. He also helped his daughter build a teardrop camper using a Harbor Freight trailer as its base. He was also known for his excellent penmanship in industrial arts. For several years, he served as the Hindsboro Fire Chief, a role that reflected both his leadership and his commitment to his community.

He had many hobbies and interests throughout his life. He loved to mow and enjoyed woodworking, handgun shooting, Cushman scooters, vintage tractors, and pistol trophies. His woodshop had a special place in the hearts of his family. His grandchildren have fond memories of working alongside him there, where he made queen-size beds, rolltop desks, cradles, entertainment centers, and many other pieces for his children and grandchildren. Through those projects, he shared not his skill, but also his time, care, and love.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Hindsboro Civic Center.