Stephen "Steve" Paul Bradley

Stephen “Steve” Paul Bradley, 89, passed away peacefully in Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina, leaving behind a lifetime of stories, laughter, and love.

Born on May 11, 1936, in Long Branch, New Jersey, Steve was the son of Edward and Mary Bradley. He grew up in Long Branch surrounded by his brothers and sister, sharing the kind of childhood that built lifelong bonds. He is survived by his brother and sister, Richard and Susan, and always carried fond memories of his late brothers, Tom and Robert “Boo” Bradley.

After graduating from Long Branch High School, Steve began what would become a remarkable career with AT&T-starting out as an overseas operator. Balancing work, studies, and service, he earned his degree from Iona College and proudly served as a Sergeant in the Air National Guard. His determination, people skills, and work ethic carried him from the switchboard to the position of National Sales Manager-a career he retired from in 1987.

The great adventure of his life began on June 1, 1963, when he married the love of his life, Suella Merritt Bradley. Together, they shared 62 wonderful years filled with laughter, partnership, and countless memories on land and sea.

Steve was also a proud Eagle Scout who later shared his love for the outdoors as Scoutmaster for his sons’ Boy Scout troop. Whether he was sailing, traveling, or simply spending time with family, Steve approached life with a spirit of discovery and joy.

One of his more daring adventures came when he decided to take flying lessons-much to the horror of his family. He assured everyone it was perfectly safe, joking that airplanes don’t go in reverse anyway, and that was the only direction he ever seemed to get into trouble with his cars.

After his retirement, Steve and Suella moved their family from New York to Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina, where they built a new chapter filled with sunshine, community, and coastal adventures. Mt. Pleasant quickly became home-a place where Steve made lasting friendships and found joy on the water, in the neighborhood, and in the beauty of Lowcountry life.

Never one to sit still, Steve started a small business after retiring, supplying candles to restaurants up and down the Carolina coast. Before long, he became affectionately known in local restaurant circles as “The Candle Man.” It was a venture that blended his warmth, humor, and entrepreneurial spirit-and gave him yet another reason to stay connected to people.

He was also affectionately known as “The Old Goat,” a nickname Suella gave him because of an old wool sweater he loved to wear. His kids picked up on it, and soon the name stuck-something that always made him laugh.

Steve was well known for his lively recitations of “Casey at the Bat.” His family will forever miss his booming delivery, playful dramatics, and the laughter that always followed his final line.

To his grandchildren, he was simply “Poppy”-a name that perfectly captured his warmth, humor, and easy way of making everyone feel loved.

Steve was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He is survived by Suella and their four children-Mark (Andria), James (Terry), Deborah (John King), and Daniel (Mary Atmar)-as well as nine grandchildren who brought him endless pride: Zachary, Annie, Abigail, Merideth, Wyatt, Lilly, Liza, Ella Merritt, and Will.

A man of deep faith, Steve lived his values quietly but consistently. He believed in service, kindness, and integrity, and his faith guided the way he treated others-with patience, compassion, and gratitude for life’s blessings.

Those who knew Steve will remember his wit, steady guidance, and the quiet strength that anchored his family. He was a man who led with heart, humor, and humility.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, October 25, 2025, from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. at the Hobcaw Yacht Club, 180 Hobcaw Drive, Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Steve’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, honoring his lifelong spirit of generosity and service to others.

Arrangements are by J. Henry Stuhr, Inc., Mount Pleasant Chapel. A memorial message may be sent to the family on our website at www.jhenrystuhr.com.