I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing."

2 Timothy 4:7-8 KJV

Leon Bradshaw, son of the late Margaret Gamble Bradshaw and Walter Bradshaw, was born on January 23, 1951 in Chester, Pennsylvania.  He departed this life on Saturday, February 18, 2017 at Trident Medical Center, North Charleston, South Carolina.

Leon, affectionately known as "Bubba Gamble," was educated in the public schools of Berkeley County, South Carolina and was a 1968 graduate of Russellville High School where he was voted Best Dressed and Most Popular.  He then relocated to New York City where he attended Bronx Community College. Upon completion, he received an Associate's degree in Music.  Leon was musically gifted and mastered playing the trumpet. He then pursued a diploma from the American Academy McAllister Institute of Funeral Service, Inc. in Manhattan, New York on March 19, 1971.

Leon was drafted in the United States Army in 1971.  He served during the Vietnam era.  He also completed 17 years in the United States Army Reserve and was an active member of the American Legion Post 247.

Leon was employed by the New York City Department of Corrections for 25 years as a Corrections Officer.  He retired in 2005. Leon was a First Responder during 9/11 and then relocated back home to St. Stephen, SC.

Leon knew the Lord at an early age and accepted Christ as his personal Savior.  Upon moving home, he was a faithful member of Christ Fellowship Church in St. Stephen, SC.  Leon worked diligently in the church as security and always made sure the grounds were safe.  He also enjoyed singing on the male chorus.  Two of his favorite songs were, "I am a Living Testimony," and "Look Where He Brought Me From."  He would uplift the crowd with his singing and the playing of his maracas.

Leon was united in holy matrimony to Marilyn Riggins on September 15, 2003.  He and Marilyn, "Penny" as he affectionately called her, enjoyed traveling and cruising.  Leon's hobbies were: listening to music, shopping, visiting family and friends and attending church and community programs.  His favorite pastime was lawn care.  Leon was a sharp dresser and loved dining out.

Leon leaves to cherish his memories a loving and devoted wife, Marilyn Bradshaw; two children Corey (Shalina) Bradshaw of Moncks Corner, SC and Taranna Bradshaw of Poughkeepsie, New York; two grandchildren, Tevin Bradshaw of Charleston, SC and Seatigha McKenzie of Poughkeepsie, New York; one step-daughter, Sheresh Riggins of Miami, Florida and two step-grandchildren, Aaryani Gumbs and Jahlani Gumbs of Miami Florida; five sisters, Geruth Gibbs of St. Stephen, SC, Patricia (Lester) Frazier of Bronx, New York, Mitzi Dennis, Rasheeda (Kevin) Ishmail and Vearner (Steve) Dublin all of Chester, Pennsylvania; two brothers, Wilbur (Christina) Dennis and Edward (Cherell) Bradshaw also of Chester, Pennsylvania; one uncle, Lucious (Loretta) Gamble of St. Stephen, SC and two cousins reared in the home with Leon like a sister and brother, Marcia D. (Leon) Mack of St. Stephen, SC and Bernard Gamble of Ellenwood, Georgia.  Leon will also be missed by a host of nieces, nephews cousins and friends.