Earl 'Dinky' Bradford
Earl "Dinky" Bradford, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and pillar of the Wango community, passed away on December 22, 2023, after a courageous battle with cancer. Born on July 5, 1940, in Powellville, Maryland, Dinky's zest for life and infectious laughter left an indelible mark on all who knew him.
Dinky grew up in the heart of Powellville and graduated from Wicomico High School with the Class of 1958. His early love for mechanics and adventure set the stage for a life filled with excitement and entrepreneurship. As the President & CEO of Bradford Enterprises, Dinky became a respected figure in the demolition and house moving industry. His business acumen and leadership were paralleled only by his generous spirit and commitment to his community, as evidenced by his active memberships in the Wicomico Yacht Club, Pittsville Lions Club, Wicomico County Farm Bureau and his faithful service at Ayres United Methodist Church.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Dinky was a true pioneer in the local racing scene. He proudly served as the first flagman at US 13 Dragway in 1963, and his passion for the sport culminated in his induction into the US 13 Dragway Hall of Fame in 2023. His love for racing was not confined to the sidelines; Dinky was often found behind the wheel of his Super Pro S10 Pickup, appropriately named "Insane Racing", a testament to his adventurous spirit.
Dinky's love for life extended to his many hobbies and family. He enjoyed boating, snowmobiling, motorhome camping and traveling with his beloved wife and their family. Their adventures provided endless stories and laughter that will be retold for generations.
Dinky's legacy is lovingly carried on by his devoted spouse of 51 years, Connie Wimbrow Bradford, and their children, Denise Lynn Bradford Lewis (Mike), Renee Bradford Clarke (Bill), and Rhonda Bradford Morris (Eddie). His grandchildren, Adam Lewis (River), Ally Lewis Beddow (Taylor), Hannah Clarke Morris (Evan), Hope Clarke, Samuel Farmer, and Bradford Farmer, will miss their grandfather's larger-than-life presence and the wisdom he imparted. Dinky now joins his parents, Wilbur and Ella Dunn, who preceded him in death.
Those who knew Dinky will remember him as adventurous, funny, and loving. His ability to tell a story, crack a joke, or lend a helping hand made him a beloved figure in his community. In a brief stint as an auctioneer, Dinky's booming voice and quick wit made every event memorable. His laughter was contagious, his friendship invaluable, and his love for his family unwavering.
As we bid farewell to Earl "Dinky" Bradford, we celebrate a life well-lived, a race well-run, and a journey well-traveled. His spirit will continue to guide and inspire those who were fortunate enough to have been touched by his remarkable life. Dinky's story is not one of sorrow but of joy, not of loss but of legacy, and he will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.
Special thanks to Coastal Hospice and to the wonderful doctors, nurses, and staff at Atlantic General Hospital and the John H. Burbage Cancer Center for their compassionate care. They took great care of Dinky for over five years and were like family.
A Funeral Service officiated by Pastor Ray Rogers was held on Saturday, Dec 30, 2023 at 2:00PM at Holloway Funeral Home, 501 Snow Hill Road, Salisbury, MD 21804. Family received guests 2-hours prior from 12-2PM. Immediately following the funeral service, there was an escorted procession past Wango Cemetery proceeding directly to Ayres United Methodist Church for fellowship and refreshment. The interment was held in private.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Dinky's memory to Ayres United Methodist Church or to Coastal Hospice.