Virgil "Wayne" Bradburn, Jr.

Virgil Wayne Bradburn Jr., 91, passed away peacefully on October 14, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on June 6, 1935, he was the son of the late Reverend Virgil and Elma Bradburn. He was also preceded in death by his brother, David Lee Bradburn.

A proud Marion Ripper, he was a graduate of Marion High School's Class of 1953. He went on to attend the University of California, Irvine, and proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps during the Korean War. His military service was a source of great pride throughout his life.

From an early age, he demonstrated a spirit of dedication, leadership, and service. He earned the distinguished rank of Eagle Scout and was the first Scout in McDowell County to receive the prestigious God and Country Award.

A man of strength, unwavering determination, and a wonderfully subtle sense of humor, Wayne was never one to use more words than necessary. But when he spoke, his words carried meaning, often accompanied by an interesting fact, a bit of wisdom, or a remark that would leave you smiling. He had a stubborn streak that those closest to him knew well, along with an endless desire to stay busy.

He found great happiness in the outdoors and had a lifelong love of adventure. Whether trout fishing, backpacking through the mountains, tending his garden, or working around the farm, he appreciated the beauty and simplicity of nature. He embraced gardening, homesteading, and healthy living with the same determination he brought to everything he did. Although he enjoyed exploring the world around him, there was no place he loved more than being home on the farm.

He also had a remarkable passion for filmmaking and photography. At family gatherings, celebrations, and everyday moments, there was never a need to worry about who would take the pictures or record the videos. He already had it covered. Always behind the camera, he quietly documented the lives of those he loved, preserving moments that might otherwise have faded with time. Through his photographs and films, he gave his family a gift that will only grow more precious with the passing years.

Above all else, Wayne was a devoted family man. No accomplishment, adventure, or personal passion ever came before the people he loved. His family was his greatest pride, his greatest joy, and the most meaningful part of his life.

Wayne is survived by his beloved wife of 71 years, Jackie Bradburn, and the family that brought him his greatest joy.

He is lovingly remembered by their children Beverly Britton (John), David Bradburn, Beth Bradburn, and Denise Jhant (Michael); his grandchildren, Nicholas Reep, Whitney Reep (Matthew Green), Wesley Campbell, Kyle Jhant, and Andrea Padgett (Eddie); and his great-grandchildren, DK, Lincoln, and Emilia.

He is also survived by his sisters, Susan Hemphill (John) and Marianne Bradburn, and his sister-in-law Vonnie Hensley, and his brother-in-law Mark Hensley (Beth). As well as many loving nieces and nephews.

His was a life well lived, filled with adventure, hard work, quiet humor, steadfast love, and a deep appreciation for the world around him. And as Wayne would say, “Stay on the sunny side.”

A memorial service will be held on Sunday, October 18, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. in the Chapel of Beam Funeral Service. A gathering of family and friends will immediately follow the service at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to one of the following organizations

McDowell Technical Community College Foundation – Wayne Bradburn Fund

Contributions will support the McDowell Tech Trail School, honoring Wayne's lifelong love of nature, outdoor adventure, and education. Donations may be mailed to 54 College Drive, Marion, NC 28752, or made online through the McDowell Technical Community College website. Please designate contributions to the “Wayne Bradburn Fund.”

Fishers of Men Ramp Ministry

Donations may be mailed to Fishers of Men Ramp Ministry, c/o Pleasant Gardens Community Center, P.O. Box 2856, Marion, NC 28752 in memory of Wayne Bradburn.