Bradford James Craig

Bradford James Craig passed away Monday, July 22, 2024, at the age of 29, leaving behind a legacy of warmth and inclusivity that touched countless lives.

Born in Salt Lake City on April 30, 1995, to Barrett and Rachel Craig, Bradford (Brad, as he liked to be called) exemplified from an early age a remarkable ability to connect deeply with others. His innate kindness and genuine interest in people made him a cherished friend, a loving family member, and a pillar of his community.

Throughout his life, Bradford radiated a unique blend of humor and charisma that drew people to him effortlessly. His infectious laughter could brighten the darkest days, and his quick wit kept everyone on their toes (except for his sister Kathryn, who always seemed to one-up him, but he was resilient enough to try to have the last word). Those who knew Bradford remember him as much for his goofiness as for his deep capacity for love. He had a unique way of turning ordinary moments into extraordinary memories, often through his playful antics and lighthearted spirit. His laughter was contagious, and his enthusiasm for the care of others was boundless.

In high school, Bradford actively participated in multiple sports, such as cross-country, basketball, and track and field. Shortly after finishing school, he began his career in sales which allowed him to further extend his compassion and care to those around him. Colleagues remember him not only for his professional expertise but also for his unwavering support and encouragement. He believed everyone should feel cared for and valued, so that’s what he did.

Service was central to Bradford’s life, and he always found ways to improve his community. Bradford lived by the creed: “Volunteerism is the rent you pay to live on this Earth.” A sentiment instilled in him by his Grandfather, Popi. Bradford joined the Twin Falls Rotary Club in December 2020 and became a board member in July 2022. However, his relationship with Rotary began as a young child; it was a Craig Family tradition to help with the Jerome Rotary Christmas Baskets. He looked forward to this tradition every year for the past 20 years. Throughout his life, Bradford painted many houses, served tons of ice cream, sold hundreds of raffle tickets, volunteered at countless fun runs, and provided Christmas gifts/meals to our region, all in the acts of service and giving back to his community. If someone was in need, Bradford was quick to lend a hand and a smile.

Bradford loved traditions, especially ones that involved his family. He enjoyed family game nights (where he could not allow his two sisters to win), movie nights at the theater and at home (where he inherited his need for buttered popcorn and soda from his dad), and dog walks with his mom along the canal bank. He loved his Grandma Joyce’s confetti cupcakes and Grandma Reinita’s pumpkin pie and always found a way to get them to make it for him. He was thoughtful and considerate, always finding time to call those important to him to say hello or stop to speak to a friend on the street. He had a way of making everyone feel important, like he had all the time in the world to chat. 

In his leisure time, Bradford enjoyed the game of golf (a passion started at a young age by his Grandpa Flinn) and always had his clubs close at hand when the weather allowed. He enjoyed his camping trips with the Flinn family up in Joes Valley, including driving the Dune Buggy. He was an avid Xbox fanatic, finding time when he could to play a few rounds online either with his cousin Brady or other friends. Bradford loved reading, a trait he inherited from both grandfathers, and preferred nonfiction, motivational stories that inspired him to better himself. He was also quite the collector of hats and always had many strewn throughout the house or in his truck. If you saw him out and about, chances are there was a hat on his head with sunglasses.

Bradford leaves behind a community deeply enriched by his presence and a multitude of friends who will forever cherish his memory. His legacy of kindness, love, inclusivity, and humor will continue to inspire all who knew him. Bradford's spirit left an indelible mark on this world, and he will be deeply missed.

Bradford is survived by his parents, Barrett and Rachel Craig; two sisters, Kathryn and Abigail Craig; three grandparents, Joyce Craig, Robert and Reinita Flinn; three dogs, Bleu, Violet, and Saint; many uncles and aunts and several cousins. 

He was preceded in death by his grandfather, LeRoy Craig; uncles, Mike Tremblay and Matthew Flinn; and cousin, Chance Craig. 

A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, July 30, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. in the Jerome High School Auditorium, where friends and family will gather to celebrate Bradford's life and share fond memories. A reception luncheon will be held after the funeral in the JHS Cafeteria. If you would like to honor Bradford, the family suggests memorial contributions to the CSI Foundation or the Twin Falls Rotary Foundation.