Vera Bradley (20 May 1936 - 22 Jul 2015)

In loving memory of Vera Bradley who sadly passed away on 22nd July 2015.

Vera Adams was bron on 20th May 1936 in Hornsey, North London. She lived through the war in Hornsey, and would often tell of hiding in the cupboard under the stairs when the air raid sounded, listening for the sound of V2 bombs and when the engine buzz cut out. As a child Vera was a considerable athelete, running for Middlesex Schools at the old White City stadium.

In 1951 Vera met Richard Bradley, then a bus conductor. She kept taking the same route. Sometimes Richard let her off the fare, as good a chat up technique as many. They married on 3rd Decmber 1955, living in various parts of North London in their early married life. Vera Bradley worked primarily as a bookkeeper in those days, her facility for mental arithmetic serving well in subsequent jobs.

In the 1960s Vera and Dick moved to Squires Lane in Finchley. Vera had three sons: Colin (1958), Barry (1961) and Paul (1970). For a brief period she worked as a school dinner lady in Finchley.

In 1968 the family moved to Southend. Vera had a number of short term jobs in Southend to fit around her children's schooling. These included jobs as a barmaid at sea-front pubs in Southend and Leigh-on-Sea, before Dick and Vera were appointed Steward and Stewardess at the Railway Club in Southend.

In 1977 Vera and Dick realised their ambition of owning and running a pub, moving to the Blue Anchor in Lowestoft High Street. They remained there until 1981, before moving on to take over the reins at The White Horse in Corton. Throughout her time in the pub trade Vera was actively involved in the community, believing the old fashioned pub to be a cornerstone of the social life of the community. She spent many years active on the committee of the Lowestoft Ladies' Dart League, including a period as chairlady of the league.

After leaving The White Horse in 1988, closely pursued by HM Customs (she foolishly let Dick keep the books), Vera continued working. Until her last few years, you could not stop her bustling. Six grandchildren came in due course: Matthew, Daniel, Ashley, Jonathan, Kieron and Cameron. They were the pride of her later years.

In her last few years Vera succumbed to a number of illnesses. She had diabetes and fought her battle, as many do, against cancer. Latterly, following a number of serious operations, she lapsed into dementia. Even during her last days the memories of her carers remain those of a woman full of laughter, always concerned that others were enjoying themselves.

Everyone who has been asked has said that they have too many memories of Vera to pick out individual ones; but they have always involved laughter with Vera's willingness to laugh at herself before others being at their core. Vera was someone who lived life to the full and who was happiest if she could make other people happy. She delighted in a party, but was always keen to bring bystanders into the enjoyment. Wherever Vera now is, there will be a party and she will be at its centre.

Vera's family would like to thank all for the kind words and condolences recently expressed. We would also like to thank you for visiting this site. Next time you take a sip of alcohol just raise a glass to Vera.