Raymond E. "Buddy" Bradley III

Raymond Earl "Buddy" Bradley III, 63, of Lake Charles, passed away on August 15, 2025.

Buddy was known for his warmth, generosity, and his remarkable gift for connecting with people. His life was marked by loyalty, love, and dedication to family, faith, and service to others.

Born in Eunice, LA, and raised in Lake Charles, Buddy grew up with a passion for football. He proudly played at St. Margaret Catholic School and St. Louis Catholic High School, graduating in 1980. He went on to attend McNeese State University in the early 1980s before achieving the extraordinary accomplishment of being accepted into the highly competitive LSU Physical Therapy program in New Orleans-one of just 60 students admitted each year between New Orleans and Shreveport.

This milestone launched a remarkable career spanning over 30 years as an in-home physical therapist. With tenacity, grit, and an unwavering sense of purpose, Buddy poured himself into his work. He was meticulous in his care, but it was his compassion, perseverance, and genuine love for people that made him exceptional. He cherished every patient, taking time to listen, share stories, and bring comfort beyond the physical healing.

Buddy's passions reached far beyond his work. A lifelong Dallas Cowboys fan, he carried his loyalty through every season. He was also a devoted collector-of football cards, guns, knives, watches, coins, and memorabilia from his football days, many of which his grandchildren proudly wear today as a living legacy of their BB.

But the true center of Buddy's life was his family. At just 15 years old, he met the love of his life, Debbie Lynn Bragg. With grit and confidence, his very first words to her were, "I'm going to marry you." True to his word, Buddy and Debbie became high school sweethearts and were married on November 5, 1982. For 42 years, their marriage stood as a testament to unwavering love and loyalty. Together, they built a beautiful family, raising three children who were his greatest pride and later becoming grandparents to three grandchildren who were his absolute joy. He poured his whole heart into them-spoiling, cheering, and loving them with a devotion that will never be forgotten.

Buddy's humor, kindness, and big-hearted spirit made him unforgettable. He never met a stranger, and his presence left a lasting impression on everyone blessed to know him. He was truly vital in the lives of his family and friends, and his legacy will live on in them.

Buddy is survived by his loving wife of 42 years, Debbie Bragg Bradley; his children, Steven Bradley and Ariel Braddock (Evans); his mother, Katina Elaine Vezina Watson; his sister, Sherry Watkins (Wynn); his stepmother, Pat Bradley; and three grandchildren, August, Windsor, and Stetson Braddock.

He is preceded in death by his son, Raymond Earl "Bear" Bradley IV; his father, Raymond Earl Bradley II; his sister, Michelle Bradley; his stepfather, Richard Leon "Poppie" Watson.

A gathering of family and friends to honor Buddy's life will take place on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Johnson Funeral Home in Lake Charles.

A private ceremony for burial will be held, at a later date, for immediate family only.