1948-2026
Larry Alan “Laughin’ Larry” Bradford, 78, of Lyons, Kansas, passed away on October 26, 2026, at Abrazo Hospital in Phoenix, Arizona.
He was born September 25, 1948, in Lyons, Kansas, the son of Melvin Lee and Velva June (Manny) Bradford. In July 2026, Larry moved to Phoenix to live with his brother, Richard. Prior to his move, he had been a lifelong resident of Lyons.
Larry attended Lyons USD 405. He worked briefly at Pepsi-Cola in Lyons and at H & S Laundry from 1962 until 1972. In 1973, he began working for the City of Lyons as a trash collector, a position he held until 1980. He then began working at the Lyons Municipal Cemetery, where he remained until his retirement in 2016.
Larry was loved by so many and will always be remembered for his quiet demeanor, infectious laugh, and unwavering love for anything and everything involving Lyons! He faithfully attended sporting events, music concerts, open houses, and countless other activities at USD 405. Larry was a member of First Baptist Church of Lyons.
He is survived by his brother, Richard Bradford of Phoenix, AZ; sister, Barbara Harwood and her husband, Tom, of Dothan, AL; sister-in-law, Sandra Bradford of New Castle, Australia; six nieces and nephews, James, Lori (husband Clint), Nicole, Nathan, Shawna (husband Wayne), and Cameron; six great-nieces and great-nephews, Caitlin, Ryleigh, Nellie, Theodore “Theo,” Cole, and Cody; and three great-great-nephews, Emerson, Lincoln, and Jameson.
While our hearts are broken and he will be deeply missed, we find comfort in knowing that he is now in the presence of the Lord, rejoicing in Heaven and reunited with his parents; his older brother, Dennis Bradford; and so many other loved ones who went before him.
Though we wish we had more time with him here on earth, we are grateful for the memories, laughter, and love he leaves behind. His presence in our lives was truly a blessing.
In one final act of kindness and generosity, Larry was an organ donor, leaving behind a legacy of giving that reflects the gentle and caring person he was. Even in passing, Larry’s gift has the potential to make a difference in the lives of others.
A visitation will be held from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 14, 2026, at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons, with family present.
A celebration of life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, November 15, 2026, at First Baptist Church in Lyons, with Pastor Joel Grizzle officiating. Burial will take place at Lyons Municipal Cemetery at a later date.
Larry was a proud supporter of Lyons USD 405. In his honor, family and friends are encouraged to wear their Lyons school colors or casual attire to either service.
Memorial contributions may be made to Lyons USD 405, First Baptist Church, or the Lyons Bell and Star Fund, in care of Birzer Funeral Home, Lyons.
To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.
