J. W. Bradley

Jacob William Bradley known to many as Jaybird or just JW, and big Brother, Daddy, or Papaw to his family, passed away July 27, 2025, at Methodist Medical Center of Oak Ridge. Preceded in death by his parents Judson David Bradley and Jamie Irene Bradley and sisters Aunt Jackie and Sueanne. Also, his wife of 67 years Emma Ruth "Kate" Bradley (Hobbs) passed away on July 29, 2019.

JW lived a life of shameless persistence. A retired electrician who provided a life and a home for his family, friends, countless critters, and even some strange hippies from Vanderbilt who wanted to help make Petros and Morgan county a better, more just place to live. He never retired from answering every knock on the door, helping anyone who asked, and inventing newly difficult yet effective ways of doing things.

In 1972, he co-founded the activist organization, Save Our Cumberland Mountains (SOCM), which still operates today under an updated acronym and broader mission. SOCM's flagship efforts to push back against the destructive practices of strip-mining empowered local landowners and communities to stand firm against this extractive industry and destructive practices. Ralph Nader has referred to JW as a “fighter for justice,” and JW did fight with the same shameless persistence his entire life. Even in his very last days, many visitors would leave with full stomachs and a list of tasks that JW thought needed done.

The world has lost a fighter. A family has lost a daddy, a big brother, a (great) papaw. A multitude seeking to comfort the afflicted and afflict the comfortable has lost a great mentor. For those of us who knew him and loved him, it’s now up to us to do what needs doing, shamelessly and never ceasing.

He is survived by his

Children: Connie Bradley, Chip Bradley and Faith Wayland.

Son-in-law: Teddy Wayland

Grandchildren: Trevor Loy & wife Shawnna, Taylor Loy & wife Rebecca, Harley Wayland and Cassidy Wayland.

Great-grandson: Evan Loy

Brothers: Bobby and Leon

Several special Nieces and Nephews

Special thanks to his nurses/caregivers from Quality Private Duty Care who took great care of him and became like family. Thank you, Rhonda Smith, Mandi Jones, and Joel Lasig.

The family will receive friends on Wednesday, July 30, 2025 from 5-7 pm. Funeral services will follow at 7pm. Graveside services will 11 am Thursday at the New Petros Cemetery, Petros, TN.

In lieu of flowers the family request that contributions be made to: SOCM, P.O. Box 12667, Knoxville, TN  37912-0667.

Schubert Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of J.W. Bradley.