William "Bill" Edward Bradshaw of Tuskahoma, Oklahoma passed away on November 18, 2023, in Dallas, Texas, age 68. He was born on February 20, 1955 to James “Jim” Lester Bradshaw and Doris (Bottom) Bradshaw in Cheyenne, Oklahoma. Bill's athletic attributes were evident from his high school days at McKinney High School, where he excelled in football and basketball, earning three years of varsity letters. He continued his athletic journey at the University of Texas at Arlington (UTA) on an athletic scholarship. Bill's promising sports career took a new direction when he was drafted by the Oakland Raiders. Unfortunately, a knee injury cut short his professional football aspirations. In recognition of his exceptional achievements, he was inducted into the McKinney High School Hall of Honor in January 2023.
Bill married Donna Myrick and together, they shared many wonderful years of marriage. Their partnership was built on a foundation unwavering commitment, supporting and uplifting each other through life's ups and downs. Bill was a devoted father to his daughters, Brooke Whitehead, Briana Hardy, and Juli Lannom. He took great pride in their accomplishments and cherished the precious moments they shared together. His love for his daughters was unconditional and provided them with a sense of security and guidance. Being a grandfather brought immense happiness and fulfillment to Bill's life. He delighted in the presence of his grandchildren, Boston, Emerson, Dalton, Kylee and Reed, who brought endless joy and laughter into his world. He cherished the special moments spent with them, creating lasting memories that will be cherished.
Bill dedicated 42 years to the banking business, retiring as the president of Peoples Bank in Princeton in 2022. Throughout his life, Bill actively contributed to his community. He served on the Princeton Chamber of Commerce until his retirement and was an active member of the Kiwanis Club of McKinney for many years. Bill was a passionate fan of the Cowboys and Rangers which filled him with excitement of game days. He also enjoyed traveling and the adventure of discovering new foods. He had a great love for the outdoors, whether it was taking a hike or simply enjoying the beauty of a sunset. Nature was his sanctuary and Bill found peace in the beauty of nature.
In 2022, Bill retired and relocated to Tuskahoma, Oklahoma to become his lasting community. Bill was also a faithful member of the Tuskahoma Christian Church, finding fellowship for his faith. Despite facing a challenging battle with Renal Cell Carcinoma for six years, Bill faced each day with courage and a positive spirit.
Bill leaves behind a legacy of dedication, integrity, and community involvement. He was a pillar of strength for his family, always providing unwavering support, guidance, and unconditional love. Let us remember him not with sorrow, but with gratitude for the moments we shared and the lessons he taught us.
Bill is survived by his wife, Donna Bradshaw of Tuskahoma, Oklahoma; daughters, Brooke Whitehead of Katy, Texas; Juli Lannom of Panama City Beach, Florida, and Briana Hardy of Katy, Texas; grandchildren, Boston Whitehead, Emerson Whitehead, Dalton Whitehead, Kynlee Hardy, and Reed Lannom; siblings, Rick Bradshaw of Arlington, Texas, Agnes Nicely and husband, Jim of Allen, Texas, Don Bradshaw and wife, Lorie of Elk City, Oklahoma, and Sue Wilson and husband, Danny of Allen, Texas; and numerous cousins, nephews, nieces, other loving family members and cherished friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Doris Bradshaw and Jim Bradshaw, as well as his son-in-law, John Whitehead.
A Celebration of Life in honor of Bill's remarkable journey will be held at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, December 16, 2023 at First Methodist McKinney, 315 North Church Street, McKinney, Texas 75069.
In lieu of flowers, Bill expressed his wish for donations to be made to the Tuskahoma Christian Church, P.O. Box 388, Clayton, Oklahoma, 74536.