Pastor Barry L. Bradley, a beloved brother, uncle, friend and servant, passed from this life on January 9, 2026. He was born April 10, 1962, in Columbus, Mississippi, to the late Joseph and Elizabeth Bradley. Pastor Barry's life was defined by faith in action—by a calling to serve others, by tireless work on behalf of his community, and by a warm, steady presence that lifted everyone around him.

Raised in Columbus in a close-knit family, Barry grew up with strong values of service, responsibility and devotion to God and family. He graduated from New Hope High School in 1982, proud of his roots and committed from an early age to using his gifts to bless others. Family was central to him, he treasured time with siblings, nieces and nephews, and the many friends who became family through years of faithful ministry.

After accepting Christ as his personal Savior, Barry answered his divine calling into the ministry. Moved by a desire to bring people into a living relationship with the Lord and to provide spiritual care for his community, he founded the Apostolic Church of the Lord Jesus Christ in Cedar Bluff, Mississippi. As pastor, he shepherded his congregation with compassion, humility and conviction. He led worship, preached with sincerity and power, and worked tirelessly to ensure his church was a place of welcome, healing and spiritual growth.

Beyond his pulpit duties, Pastor Barry served on many church committees and ministries. He was actively involved in the "Feed My Sheep" ministry, helping to provide for those in need. His faith was never merely spoken, it was shown through acts of mercy and practical support for others.

Pastor Barry's commitment to service extended well beyond the church walls. He volunteered with the Salvation Army, Helping Hand, United Way and other community organizations, giving of his time and leadership to improve the lives of others. For more than three decades he served as Director of Pride and Joy Daycare (1993–2025), caring for children, supporting families and mentoring staff until his retirement in 2025. Under his direction the daycare became known as a safe, nurturing environment where children could learn and thrive.

An avid sports fan, Pastor Barry loved Mississippi State athletics and enjoyed sharing games and spirited conversations with friends and family. Equally important to him was his role as a mentor to youth—he invested time in young lives, offering guidance, encouragement and a steady example of faith, integrity and service. Those who were mentored by him remember a patient listener, a firm believer in potential, and a pastor who modeled Christian discipleship in everyday life.

Barry's life was marked by humility, perseverance and a servant's heart. He led without seeking praise, taught by example, and comforted those in sorrow with both prayer and practical help. His legacy is visible in the lives he touched: the congregation that grew stronger under his care, the children who were nurtured at Pride and Joy, the neighbors who received assistance, and the many young people who found in him a trusted mentor.

He was preceded in death by his parents, one sister, Yvonne B. Henderson, and four brothers: Howard Bradley, Wilson Bradley, Joseph Bradley, Sr., and Samuel C. Bradley.

He is survived by his siblings: Helen (James) Jethroe of Warren, OH; John Bradley of Columbus, MS; Willie (Diane) Bradley of Cleveland, OH; Ossie Bradley of Indianapolis, IN; Elester (Ozella) Bradley of Warren, OH; Shirlean (Willie Mac) Johnson of Columbus, MS; Betty (Charles) Henry of Columbus, MS. Earnest (Brenda) Jones of Columbus, MS,  Shirley Bush and Betty Hargrove of Columbus, MS; one God-Child, Lamont Montgomery.  He also leaves a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends who will cherish his memory.

Psalm 34:1 I will bless the LORD at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth.

Carter's Funeral Services invites you to the scheduled livestream for the Homegoing Celebration for Pastor Barry L. Bradley & Mr. Samuel C. Bradley on Saturday, January 24, 2026 at 11:00 A.M. CST.

Please click on link below:

https://www.youtube.com/live/_4RUsYMhvls?si=6lAgW69eO1wJUR8S