Martha Ellen Bradford

Martha Ellen Bradford, affectionately known as Marty to her friends and family, passed away peacefully on March 18, 2026, at the age of 100 in Enterprise, Alabama. Born on May 31, 1925, in Columbus, Ohio, to the late Raymond William Fleming and Martha Wilhelmina Krause, Marty grew up with a foundation of love and strong family values that would carry her through an extraordinary century of life.

Marty's journey led her to marry her first love, William Henry Basham, Jr., at the tender age of 18. Their union was one of adventure and deep affection. After William's military career ended in 1945, they moved to the canal zone in Panama. After William's untimely passing on May 7, 1961, Marty demonstrated her remarkable resilience and independence. She later found love again with Clayton Bradford, who became a cherished husband until his passing. After Clayton’s passing in 1979, Marty resided in the canal zone until 1980, then she relocated to Dothan, Alabama.

Blessed with a large and loving family, Marty was preceded in death by her first husband William, her parents, her children, Patricia Christian and Susan Basham, and two brothers. She is survived by her children: Michael Basham (Linda), Nancy Stanford (Larry), Daniel Basham (Fran), and Kathleen Monday (Craig). Her legacy continues through her many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren who will remember her with great affection and respect.

Marty was a graduate of South High School in Columbus. Her commitment to community service was evident in her 30 years of volunteer work at the Southeast Alabama Medical Center gift shop. A devout Catholic, she lived her faith through acts of kindness and service to others.

Her interests were as diverse as the places she lived. Marty was a kind and personable soul who found joy in crafting, quilting, and crocheting. A brave and independent woman, she made friends easily, including a special bond with her son's mother-in-law, Mildred Patton. Marty's love for animals was boundless, with a particular soft spot for cats.

A mass of Christian burial will be held on Friday, April 10, 2026, at 11am at Saint Columba Catholic Church with Father Gallagher officiating. Inurnment will take place in Sunset Memorial Park Cemetery.