Michael Ray Bradshaw Sr.

Published 5:17 pm Thursday, November 10, 2022

Michael Ray Bradshaw Sr., 67, who was born in San Diego, Calif. on July 12, 1955, to Jane Bradshaw Driggers and the late Earl Mcdonald Bradshaw, passed away peacefully on Nov. 9, 2022, at Sentara Norfolk General Hospital.

In addition to his mother and her husband, Dave Driggers, left to cherish his memory and continue his traditions are his brother and sister-in-law, Steve and Sharon Bradshaw; his children and their spouses, Antoinette and Lee Bailey, Amber and Todd Edwards, Erin and Adam Rountree, Michael and Alicia Bradshaw; his grandchildren, Emmalee and Ila Bailey, Sarah and Carson Rountree, Russell Edwards, Tanner, Riley and Noa Bradshaw; nieces, Amy Woodhouse and Kim Fernando and their families, all of whom he was incredibly proud. Dad was also cherished by a host of family and friends who will undoubtedly keep his stories and memory alive. 

Mike was proud to have immediately entered the workforce upon graduation from Great Bridge High School. Entering through the apprentice program, he made a long and successful career most predominantly at Norfolk Naval Shipyard. Both his hard work and interest in investing in others shined in his career as he advanced positions and was proud of the people he met and mentored along the way.

Since retirement, Dad put those same efforts into being fully present with his family. He arranged his weekly schedule around events for his children and grandchildren and eagerly awaited whatever project or adventure was planned for the weekend. Dad modeled his bravery, courage and toughness, throughout all that 2022 threw at him. At a time when he could’ve been angry or defeated with his diagnosis, he instead doubled-down on his efforts to live life fully.

In lieu of flowers, we would offer you a variety of ways to honor our dad which would bring a smile to his face and yours. You may choose to donate to an organization he held in high regard. He enjoyed supporting Norfolk Academy and Nansemond-Suffolk Academy. His gratitude for his healthy family led him to be a consistent donor to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. His patriotism was evident in his consistent support of numerous veteran organizations, in particular, the United Service Organization or Wounded Warrior Project. Equally appropriate ways to honor him would be to have dinner with family and sing grace as if it is a concert. Go to a sporting event and be the loudest fan in the stands. Go hunting or fishing and retell the story of your catch with incredible description and detail and maybe even an embellishment. Sit down at a table with friends over a fresh steamed pile of blue crabs. Tell your family how much you love them and how proud you are of them, often. 

The family wishes to extend their gratitude to the medical professionals on their Dad’s journey. In particular, Drs. Atienza, McBee, and Edang, and the staff of Sentara Hospice Care. A celebration of Mike’s life is being planned for a later date. Post condolences on parrfuneralhome.com.