Napoleon Bradford

Napoleon Franklin Bradford, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, educator, minister, and United States Air Force veteran, peacefully transitioned from thisearthly life on Saturday, October 31, 2026.

Born in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, Napoleon was the son of Henry Shields Bradford and Mary Catherine Davis Bradford. Matriculating through the public schools of Forsyth County, Napoleon “Poe” graduated from Paisley High School in 1963 and continued his education at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University,earning a Bachelor of Science in Art Education in 1968. He later earned a master's degree in Social Studies from the University of South Carolina in 1977. 

A proud Vietnam-era veteran, Napoleon served in the United States Air Force andattained the rank of Captain. Following his military service, he dedicated almost threedecades to public education in Sumter, South Carolina, serving as a History teacher atBates Middle School, then as an Administrator in several schools throughout SumterSchool District #17. His commitment to education, leadership, and service positively influenced generations of students and families.

A man of faith, Napoleon embraced the Baptist tradition and was baptized at New Bethel Baptist Church in Winston-Salem, N.C. He was ordained a Deacon, then accepted a call to ministry being licensed and ordained at Jehovah Missionary Baptist Church in Sumter,SC. Napoleon later joined The Perfecting Place in Temple Hills, MD. He believed in loving God, valuing family, and treating others with dignity and compassion.

Napoleon “Brad” was a Lifetime member of the N.A.A.C.P., a proud member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., the Prince Hall Masons, and several Educational Associations. Among his proudest accomplishments in life were his marriage and the births of his children. He cherished his family and the generations that followed.

Napoleon leaves to cherish his memory his beloved wife of 51+ years, Ella Rose Abram Bradford; his children Deidre Shireen Holmes Berry, Napoleon Abram (Karen), Ella Frankrozlyn, Brad Gallashaw, his grandchildren: Portia La-’Shay, Roger Cameron, Alese,Lauryn, NeTyra AtiNyque, Napoleon Koren, Noelle Kannise (deceased), and Nylah Jennai; 5 great-grandchildren; and a host of family members, friends, former colleagues,and students. He was preceded in death by his brother, Reginald Lee Bradford, and his granddaughter, Noelle Kannise.In reflections he personally prepared, Napoleon shared two guiding principles that beautifully summarize his life: “Love God and your fellow man and woman.” “Help someone along the way.”These simple yet profound words remain a lasting testament to his faith, character, and commitment to humanity. Though his earthly journey has ended, his legacy of love, learning, and service will continue through the lives he touched and the family he loved.