Obituaries – Their Stories Live On

Mrs. Earlene Denise Bradford (née Woodson), affectionately known as "Wookie," age 70, of Oak Hill, WV, entered into eternal rest on Monday, July 15, 2024.

Earlene was born December 31, the last day of the year, in 1953, in the town of Beckley, Earlene's life was one of service, laughter, and profound commitment to her family.

Earlene devoted 29 years to caring for the elderly as an AMAP at Kate Boone Nursing Home and nurturing young minds as a daycare teacher at Mt. View Christian School. Her work ethic was unparalleled, and her dedication to those in her care was a true reflection of her independent and compassionate spirit.

Earlene’s personal life was abundant with joy, stemming from simple pleasures such as cheering on the Steelers, tuning into "General Hospital," and indulging in the drama of WWE and classic westerns. Above all, Earlene's heart was most full when surrounded by her beloved family, particularly while witnessing the milestones of her grandchildren.

Earlene, the family matriarch leaves behind a legacy through her children, Shamel Bradford, Shamec Bradford, and Bryant Brim, whom she regarded as her very own. She was a pillar of strength to her nine siblings: Patricia Ferrell (John), Zachary Woodson (Pam), Geneva Lynch (William, deceased), Donna Leftwich (Dean), Ronald Woodson (Donita, deceased), Jackie Woodson, Verneicea Woodson, Vandallva Woodson, and Von Woodson (Lisa); her role as a grandmother to Kyalo (Tesla), Ernest (Ally), Daae-V-on, and Abblique Bradford, and as a great-grandmother to Ezzarayla, Ernest VII, Ezaylyn, Kynsleigh, Ellie, and Kaevon Bradford, was performed with immense pride and love.

Earlene's warmth will also be missed by a host of nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

Earlene was preceded in departure by her parents, Mary “Patsy” and Earl “Byrd” Woodson; brother, Earl Young; and grandmother, Mary Baldwin, alongside her great-grandmother, Florence Hendricks and great-uncle, Robert Hendricks.

Earlene's memory will be enshrined not just in the annals of our hearts, but in the kindness and care she endowed upon the world.

Services to honor Earlene's life will be conducted at 1:00PM Tuesday, July 30, 2024 at the Church of God Family Worship Center 224 Pinewood Dr. Beckley. Burial will follow in Greenwood Memorial Park, Beckley.

Friends, while wearing masks and observing social distancing, may visit with the family one-hour prior.

Email condolences to ritchiejohnsonfuneralparlor@gmail.com.

Arrangements entrusted to Ritchie & Johnson Funeral Parlor, Beckley.