Franklin Leon Bradley
Franklin Leon Bradley, 86, of Clinton passed away Saturday, May 16, 2026, at Parkwest Medical Center.
Leon was a devoted husband, father, papa and brother. He lived his life dedicated to his wife, Karen. As Alzheimer’s slowly stole her memories, he remained her caring, loving and devoted caregiver for several years.
He was a proud veteran of the U.S. Army and later worked at Oak Ridge National Laboratory.
In addition to his parents Judson David Bradley and Jamie Irene Bradley, Leon was preceded in death by his brother J.W. and sisters Jackie and Sue Anne.
He leaves behind his wife of almost 63 years, Karen Marie Bradley, son David Bradley (Cherie), daughter Susan Treece (Derrick), grandsons Ryan Bradley and Seth Treece, and granddaughter Hannah Treece, all of Clinton; granddaughter Kara DeArmond (Jesse) of Coalfield; and brother Bobby Bradley (Zona) of Tazwell,
After retirement, his greatest joy was traveling around the world with Karen. Karen and Leon enjoyed making many trips around the South following their favorite artist, Elvis impersonator Scot Bruce. Another one of his greatest joys was spending time with his four grandchildren. He spent endless hours with them and was so proud of each of them. After his grandkids started school, he found great joy in substitute teaching in the Anderson County School System. He made many great friends at Grand Oaks Elementary, Norris Middle School, and several other schools. He loved working in the school system for several years.
The family would like to thank the team from CNS Cares for their care, especially his nurses Kathy, Lisa, and Amanda, and many other caregivers. Also, special thanks to the Parkwest Hospital teams on 2 Dogwood and Matt and Gena on 2 Montvue.
The family received friends from 5 until 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at Beech Park Baptist Church in Oliver Springs, followed by the funeral at 7 p.m. Graveside services will be Thursday, May 21, at 2 p.m. in the East Tennessee Veterans Cemetery on John Sevier Highway. Officiating will be son David Bradley and Pastor Robbie Leach.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.
Schubert Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Franklin Leon Bradley.
