Richard Joseph Bradley, 72, of Centennial, Colorado, passed away from natural causes, on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at his home. He was born July 11, 1953, in Chicago, Illinois, the son of William E. and Dolores M. (Stone) Bradley, Jr.   

After graduating from Boylan Catholic High School in Rockford, Illinois, Richard proudly served his country in the United States Air Force from 1971 to 1975. Following his military service, Richard earned his Associate of Applied Science degree in both Fire and Police Science from Rock Valley College in Rockford, Illinois. He began his career, dedicated to public safety and security with the Greater Rockford Airport Authority as a combined Fire/Police Deputy.  He continued his public service career with the Machesney Park Mall in Machesney Park, Illinois for 10+ years as a Mall Supervisor.  Richard went onto work at the Chrysler Belvidere Assembly Plant in Belvidere, Illinois as a Security Supervisor and was a proud member of United Auto Workers Local 1268 and United Auto Workers Local 1761 during his 10+ year career.

Richard relocated to Colorado after his wife Janice passed away in 2022 from her battle with Pancreatic Cancer to live with his 2 oldest adult children.  Special appreciation is also given to his current work family and the amazing customers of T.J. Maxx/HomeGoods on University Boulevard in Centennial, Colorado for the past 3 years. He enjoyed making you all smile every time he worked as a cashier.  Richard was known for his humor, strong work ethic, dedication, and commitment to those he served alongside.  

An avid fisherman and devoted Chicago sports fan since practically birth, Richard faithfully cheered on the Chicago Cubs and the Chicago Bears through every season, celebrating the victories and standing by his teams through the tough years with unwavering loyalty.  He was also an avid blood donor, generously giving to others in quiet and meaningful ways throughout his life.   

Left to cherish his memory are his four children: Heather Bradley and Charles Bradley, both of Centennial, Colorado, and Nicholas Bradley and Kelli Bradley, both of Rockford, Illinois; several four-legged grandchildren; two brothers: Michael (Deana) Bradley of East Peoria, Illinois and William (Debra) Bradley of Rockford, Illinois; three sisters: Linda Bradley (Dwayne Leinen) of Machesney Park, Illinois, Donna Bradley (Thomas Cooper) of Forreston, Illinois, and Julie Bradley (Ricky Kluesner) of Rockford, Illinois; as well as several nieces, nephews, and great nieces and great nephews. Also surviving is one brother-in-law, Dean (Janet) Williams of Schapville, Illinois; and a sister-in-law, Ruth (Gene) Amenda of Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri. He was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife, Janice; sister-in-law, Debra Bradley; brother-in-law, Tom Williams; and his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Marvin and Ledora (Hoppe) Williams. 

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the Arapahoe County Police and Fire Departments for their kindness and compassionate care.   In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the family via https://gofund.me/33380fcd5.