Pam Bradley

When reflecting on the life of Pamela Bradley, it is easy to see both her unwavering strength and her unconditional love for her family. She was always willing to go above and beyond to serve others, and she faced challenges head-on with a spirit of fierce determination. Nothing brought Pam greater joy than spending time with her loved ones, no matter how simple the moments. Her overflowing heart allowed her to touch the lives of all those around her. Dearly missed, Pam will be forever held in the hearts of those who knew her best.

The 1980s were a time of great change in the United States. The Cold War came to an end, musical artists such as Michael Jackson, Madonna, and Prince topped the music charts, and humanity rose to new heights with Columbia, the first space shuttle. It was during this influential time that Wesley and Marilyn Bradley of Grand Rapids, Michigan, were eagerly anticipating the arrival of their first baby. On November 25, 1983, their wait was over, and they welcomed their daughter, Pamela, into their hearts.

Growing up, Pam was a typical young girl of her generation in many ways. She was raised in the family home on the North side of East Grand Rapids. When Pam was eight, her brother, Kevin, joined the family. Kevin had a developmental disability, and Pam quickly became his primary caregiver. She grew to be very close with her younger brother, and they developed a lifelong bond. Throughout her childhood, Pam enjoyed swimming in the family pool and often had green hair from the chemicals. She was extremely athletic and participated in dance, gymnastics, T-ball, and soccer. Pam’s mother, Marilyn, coached her soccer team, even while she was pregnant with Kevin.

Pam attended local schools, including East Oakview Elementary School, Highlands Middle School, and Crossroads Middle School. Though she struggled with school, she worked very hard to succeed and went on to graduate from Northview High School in 2002. Following her graduation, Pam worked a variety of part-time jobs. She spent much of her early adulthood developing her identity and finding her path.

All who knew Pam can surely attest that, of all the things she loved in life, she treasured her family above all else. She welcomed her son, Kayden, into the world in 2004, and she immediately settled down in order to provide for her son. Pam’s experience with her brother, Kevin, made her a natural mother. She supported Kayden’s education and loved attending his activities, including track meets, football games, and theater productions. Pam had her daughter, Sidney, in 2005. In order to give Sidney a wonderful life, she made a plan for adoption. Later on, Pam and Sidney were able to reconnect and build a relationship. Pam was very involved in the lives of her children, and supporting Kayden and Sidney was her first priority.

Pam was never afraid to work hard when it came to providing for herself and her family. She earned a degree in cosmetology and was able to begin teaching cosmetology as well. After a few years, Pam had to undergo a surgery and lost the use of her hand. As a result, she was no longer able to work as a cosmetologist. Pam instead began working in sales in the auto industry. Over the years, she was employed at multiple dealerships and built a fulfilling career for herself, gaining respect and friendships from many of her co-workers. Pam also earned several sales and customer appreciation awards from various car dealerships.

Never one to sit still for long, Pam pursued many hobbies to stay busy in her free time. She volunteered with Cradles of Grace of Frontline Church, a service that provided support for single mothers. Pam enjoyed staying active by boxing and doing yoga. She liked to play board games, and she loved giving out thoughtful gifts for birthdays and holidays. Pam enjoyed many family trips to Florida. She was an avid fan of the Detroit Lions thanks to her father, Wesley, who instilled the love in her at a young age.

As family and friends can certainly agree, Pamela Bradley truly understood the secret to a life well lived. She was a constant source of strength, even in the most difficult of times. A devoted daughter and mother, Pam was a friend to many and beloved by all. She was a shining example of kindness and service to others, and she always made sure that those around her knew just how much they meant to her. Though she will be deeply missed, Pam leaves behind a priceless legacy that her loved ones will be proud to carry on in her footsteps.

Pamela (Pam) Bradley, age 40, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, February 29, 2024, at her home. Pamela is preceded in death by her father, Wesley Bradley. Pam is survived by her son, Kayden Bravata and daughter, Sidney Marchek; her mother, Marilyn Bradley, and brother, Kevin Bradley. Also surviving are her aunts, Karen Bradley and Sharon (Jim Holder) Stephan, her uncles, Jim Stephan, Mike (MaryBeth) Bradley, Russ (Mary) Bradley, and her cousins, Kassandra Fisher and Katelyn, Nick, Eric, Sarah and Gina Bradley. Pam also leaves behind Donald and Denice Bohay and their children Brad, Natalie, Tyler and Austin. Pam will be well known for her love of others and dedication to those she loved. A service to remember Pam will be held on Tuesday, March 12, 2024, at 12:00 pm at Frontline Community Church, 4411 Plainfield Ave. NE Grand Rapids, MI 49505. Pam’s family will meet with friends from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm prior to the service. Gifts in Pam’s memory may be given to Cradles of Grace, a service of Frontline Community Church. To leave a memory or sign Pam’s guest book, please visit www.heritagelifestory.com