Thomas E. Bradley

Age 65, of Wilmington, formerly of Chicago, died on Saturday, March 29, 2025 at Lightways Hospice in Joliet, Illinois with family by his side.

Born on August 15, 1959, Thomas Edward was a son of Earl and Mary (Kwiatkowski) Bradley. He was raised in Chicago, and graduated from Kelly High School with the class of 1979. Shortly after, he began what would become a long and dedicated career at Andrews Automotive, where he proudly worked for over 30 years until his retirement. On June 21, 1980, Thomas married the love of his life, Nancy, at St. Agnes of Bohemia Catholic Church in Chicago. The pair began their lives together in Chicago before planting roots in Wilmington in 1994. 

Thomas was a long-standing member of the Will County Sportsman Club “Lake Will” in Wilmington. A true outdoorsman at heart, he found joy in fishing, hunting, gardening, and camping. He cherished time spent in nature and never passed up the chance to share a drink and good conversation with his friends. A lifelong Chicago White Sox and Bears fan, Thomas's loyalty to his teams was unmatched. Known for his larger-than-life personality, he lit up every room he entered—always social and seemingly knowing everyone. Thomas was the life of the party, a charismatic and strong-willed man who thrived in the spotlight and brought laughter wherever he went.

He is survived by his wife, Nancy; three children: Nicole Bradley; Tommy (Karissa) Bradley; and Kylie (Sky) Rys; seven grandchildren: Bradley, Brooklynn, Payten, Isabella, Brody, Tomi, and one on the way, Remy; sister, Vickie (Kevin) Amsler; sister in law, Pamela Vega; several cousins and numerous nieces and nephews.

Thomas is preceded in death by his parents; parents in law: Phil (Joan) Wojtonik; brother, Daniel Bradley; brother in law, Leroy Vega (Junior).

The family will recieve friends for a memorial visitation at Baskerville Funeral Home, 700 East Kahler Road in Wilmington on Saturday, April 12, 2025 from 2:00 p.m. until time of the Celebration of Life service at 5:00 p.m

Preferred memorials may be made as gifts in Thomas' name to the family for their distribution.

Family and friends are encouraged to log onto www.BaskervilleFuneral.com to sign the guest book, upload photographs and share Thomas’ memorial page online through social media.

Funeral services and arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Reeves, Fruland and Baskerville Funeral Homes and Crematory. (815-476-2181)