Bradley “Brad” Shuford Coley, 66, of Hickory, North Carolina, entered the gates of Heaven on December 13, 2024 at Catawba Valley Medical Center, surrounded by his devoted family after a lengthy illness.

Born on September 27, 1958, to Ralph Sr. and Lorene Coley of Newton, Brad spent his early years in a home that shaped his resilience, faith, and commitment to family. A graduate of Appalachian State University and Southwestern Theological Seminary, Brad pursued studies in Music and Religious Education.

Brad was a Senior Director of Human Resources for Meridian Senior Living and previously served in different areas of pastoral staff at several churches in the community. Over the years, his calling led him to serve in different churches, taking on roles as a Worship Leader, Associate Pastor, and pastoral staff member. Brad’s unwavering faith in the Lord was the cornerstone of his life, and his family takes great comfort in knowing they will be reunited with him one day.

Brad was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph Sr. and Lorene Coley; his brothers, Ralph Jr. (Bucky) Coley and William (Bill) Coley.

Those left to honor his memory include his loving wife, Susan Davis Coley; his children, Emily Clark (Zach), Caroline Coley (Bryson Grier), and Christian Coley (Brittany); his sister, Elise Pendleton (Steve); his sister-in-law, Gwen Coley; his best friend and chosen brother, Rick Davis (Melia); his cherished nephews and nieces, Harrison Bryant, Colin Bryant, Courtney Coley, Tiffany Coley, Mikayla Coley; and his precious grandchildren, Camden Austin, Arabella Austin, Beckett Clark, Cash Clark, and Colson Coley.

Brad possessed a remarkable ability to create beauty and joy, especially during the holidays. From painting cookies and decorating with a keen designer’s eye to dancing in the kitchen and singing with his grandchildren, Brad brought light and life to every moment. He found his greatest joy in holding his grandchildren and watching them experience God’s love and the wonder of Christmas throughout the year.

A life celebration will be held on Saturday, January 18, 2025 at 10:30 a.m. at Lakeview Baptist Church in Hickory, North Carolina. Rev. Dr. J. Eric Davis and Rev. Ben Rowe will officiate.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Hope Allen Center for Exceptional Children at Tabernacle Christian School, a ministry that held a special place in Brad’s heart, 1225 29th Ave Dr. NE, Hickory, NC, 28601, or https://pushpay.com/g/tabernaclehickory?src=hpp (under the ‘fund’ tab, choose “Hope Allen Center for Exception Children”). Brad’s grandson, Camden Austin, has been so blessed to attend school at the Hope Allen Center for Exceptional Children at Tabernacle Christian School since its opening 3 years ago. Brad had a deep desire to bless this ministry where Camden and many other children with special needs could continue to grow, learn, and discover God’s perfect plan for their lives. This ministry has a vision to develop greatly, enabling the students to continue their education and life skills training into young adulthood.

Brad and all who knew him, knew his love for family, friends, and coworkers. His family feels deeply blessed to have experienced the magic he brought to their lives. Though his passing leaves a tremendous void, his faith and the beautiful memories he created will forever remain in their hearts.

Condolences may be sent to the Coley family at www.bennettfuneralservice.com

The Coley family is in the care of Bennett Funeral Service of Newton, 828-465-2111