Leola Wardell Bradley-Eley, 85, was born on Jan. 15, 1930, in Suffolk. She is the daughter of Mrs. Susie Tucker-Bradley and Leroy Bradley, who served as pioneers of Antioch United Church in Christ. Leola was affectionately known by her older sister Margret as “Little Sister.”

Leola was educated in the school system in Suffolk. She graduated from East Suffolk High School in early 1949. Later in 1949, Leola married John H. Eley Sr., and together they had five children. Subsequent to raising and educating her children, she started her career as a housekeeper at the United States Public Health, and later became a warehouseman/packer at the Norfolk Naval Supply Center. After 24 years of service at the NNSC, Leola retired at the highest rank in her position.

Leola was also an active member of Antioch, where she served as an usher.

Her family and friends will always remember her as a woman who loved her family. Leola was always stylish and never afraid to speak her mind. She enjoyed cooking, gardening and the lottery. Her motto: “Nothing is never gained unless work is applied.”

Leola was preceded in death by her husband John H. Eley Sr.; sons, Dr. Elmer L. Eley (Jutta) and John H Eley Jr.; and daughter, Flora C. Locust. Left to mourn are: daughter, Regina Eley-Tynes; and son Michael N. Eley (Carrie); seven grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren and a hosts of nieces, nephews, family and friends.

A visitation with family will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 9, 2015, at Antioch United Church of Christ, 900 Hull St., Suffolk, with a celebration of life starting at 11 a.m. Entombment will be in Carver Memorial Cemetery. Professional services with dignity have been entrusted to Crocker Funeral Home Inc. Condolences to the Eley family may be extended to www.crockerfuneralhome.com.

Acknowledgements: Sentara Hospice Home Care staff (Joyce H., Sherri R., Porsha T., Maggie S., Sharon S. and Eve P.)