Calvin Harvey Bradney Jr.'s Obituary
Calvin H. Bradney, Jr., a lifelong resident of Columbus, Kansas, passed away peacefully on August 12, 2024 at the age of 79. Born on November 22, 1944, Calvin was the cherished son of Calvin H. Bradney, Sr., and Dortha Mae Bradney (Stutsman). He spent his entire life in Columbus, becoming a beloved member of the community.
Calvin was a man of many accomplishments. A proud graduate of Cherokee County Rural High School, he furthered his education at the Kansas State Teachers College in Pittsburg, KS, the Kansas School of Barbering, and St. Joseph School of Radiologic Technology in Wichita, KS. His dedication to learning and his drive to serve others led him to a distinguished career as the Chief Radiological Technologist at a local hospital, where he was known for his skill, compassion, and unwavering commitment to patient care.
At the young age of 13, Calvin achieved the rank of Eagle Scout, exemplifying his early dedication to leadership and community service. His sense of duty extended to his country, where he began his military service as an enlisted serviceman, achieving the rank of SP-4 with the 89th Training Division. On April 25, 1969, he received a direct commission from President Nixon as Second Lieutenant in the Adjutant General (AG) Corps.
Calvin's military career was marked by numerous significant contributions. He served with the Service Company, 89th AR-COM in Lawrence, and as the S-1 Adjutant for the 243rd Supply and Service Battalion in Parsons. He was later assigned to the Staff of (G-1) Plans and Operations FORSCOM at Fort McPherson in Atlanta, GA, where he played a vital role in the planning of Desert Storm and Desert Shield alongside General Richard Cavazos and later General Colin Powell. Calvin's expertise and leadership were recognized when he graduated from the Army Command and General Staff College on December 5, 1974, making him only the second person to graduate as a First Lieutenant in the history of the Army.
During his service, Calvin received numerous awards and honors, including the Meritorious Service Medal, the Army Commendation Medal, the Army Achievement Medal, the Armed Forces Reserve Medal (Hourglass signifying 20 years of service), the Commanding General Letter, and the Army Reserve Years of Service Ribbon. He also earned the Army NCO Professional Development Ribbon Level I, the Army Service Ribbon, and the Expert Rifle and Pistol Badges. Calvin was also a special assignment escort for the Wichita Centennial Princess Pageant on March 17, 1969, at Century II in Wichita, exemplifying his diverse talents and commitment to duty.
Calvin was an active and engaged member of his local community, holding memberships at the American Legion Post #34 and the Kansas Society of Radiologic Technologists. His contributions to these organizations reflected his deep sense of civic duty and his commitment to supporting both his fellow veterans and his professional peers.
On June 14, 1969, Calvin married the love of his life, Marcia Bradney (Churchward). Their marriage of over 50 years was a testament to their enduring love and partnership. Together, they shared a life filled with joy, respect, and mutual support. With much love and pride with addition to his wife Marcia, is their son, born in 1974, Gregg Allen Bradney and wife Lucy of Robinson, KS.
Calvin's legacy is one of service, dedication, and love. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his memory will live on in the hearts of those he touched.
Funeral services will be held at 2pm on Friday, August 16, 2024 at the Bath-Naylor Funeral Home in Columbus.
An informal visitation will be from 1- 2 pm prior to the funeral on Friday.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the First United Methodist Church or the Keith Reeves American Legion Post #3.
What’s your fondest memory of Calvin?
What’s a lesson you learned from Calvin?
Share a story where Calvin's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Calvin you’ll never forget.
How did Calvin make you smile?