Holly Jan Bradford, with family by her side, passed away peacefully at home Wednesday, April 8, 2020. Holly was born Dec. 24, 1955, to Mary Alice Hethcot and Roger Albert Hethcot.
She grew up in Perry and graduated from Perry High School in 1974. The Perry class of ’74 was very dear to her.
Holly was preceded in death by her parents; and her brother, Robert “Hector” Hethcot of Perry.
Those left to honor her memory include her husband, Nathan Bradford of Pleasant Hill; her daughter, Wendy Koenig, and son Kevin Bradford; grandsons, Noah and Zachary Bradford; and her beloved “aunt,” Patty Salocker, who was an important part of her life and family.
Holly met the love of her life, Nathan Bradford, at age 21, and their union lasted 42 years even though some said it wouldn’t last. In sickness and in health, Nate and Holly stuck together through good times and bad.
Holly was blessed with 64 years of life filled with family and friends. Spending time with her family and her two grandsons brought her great joy and gave her the strength to fight for life.
A devoted wife, mother and grandmother, Holly worked hard for her family, not only of blood but of those closest to her. Her love was shown by often putting others’ needs ahead of her own.
She enjoyed watching her grandkids play, learn and grow. Her children and grandchildren were her source of joy.
Holly was known for her larger than life smile, her laugh, her honesty and always being there for others when she could. Holly was beautiful, smart, fun and an amazingly strong woman. While she experienced many good times, she also went through a lot of heartbreak.
She was a warrior and never gave up. She loved surprising her family and friends in big and small ways. No matter how tired she was or the length of her “to-do list,” she always had time for spontaneous dance parties in the living room with her kids or tent building with blankets and chairs.
Holly was employed as an accountant and controller at various locations, but most recently she worked at her dream job with Venter Spooner Inc. She often spoke of how thankful she was to have such amazing co-workers and bosses. They were over-the-top supportive, and she often referred to them as her life boat. They were the reason she was able to receive such wonderful treatment.
Holly will be missed by the many friends she met along her journey, but she would want us to find comfort in knowing she is now with her Lord. She leaves our shores to arrive at the gates of Heaven, where the rest of her family and friends are waiting to welcome her. She will meet you at the eastern gate.
Holly will be laid to rest at Sunrise Cemetery in Des Moines. A celebration of life will be held later this year.
