Family came first for Ely boy Jimmy
A POPULAR Ely character has been remembered for his love of family, rugby and horse-racing.
Tribute has been paid to long-serving Royal Mail worker Jimmy Bradbury following his death on July 21 aged 63.
Born in Ely, Cardiff, Jimmy attended Herbert Thompson Primary as a young boy.
From there, the dad-of-three went on to complete more than 40 years of service to the Royal Mail.
After first spending time as a postman delivering around the capital, the much-loved employee went on to work as a HGV driver at the company.
As a young man, Jimmy met the love of his life while holidaying in Lloret de Mar.
Both he and Christine continued their romance after their return, managing the long distance between Cardiff and her home in Wigan.
Eventually, the pair married in 1979 and went on to treasure 40 years of marriage together.
As well as a loving husband, Jimmy was a dedicated father to his three children Peter, Andrew and Katie.
For him, nothing was better than their annual trips to the horse-racing in Cheltenham, or simply having a pint and a catch-up.
A keen sportsman, Jimmy will also be remembered as a proud vice-president of the Glamorgan Wanderers RFC.
While his interest began with his sons’ involvement with the club, his dedication saw him move from secretary of the youth, development and second teams, and fixtures secretary for the first team, to eventually become vice-president.
Despite his ill-health, one of the highlights of his time with the club came this year watching the newlypromoted side take on Brecon in the play-offs.
Paying tribute, the club said: “For many years Jim was ever-present at the Wanderers. A long-term vice-president, he also played a huge role in the success of the Wanderers development squad, managing them to Mallett Cup and East District Cup victories.
“He will be sadly missed.” Together with rugby, Jimmy fostered a lifelong love of horse-racing and supporting Cardiff City.
To his friends, he will also be known for his quick-witted optimism, humour and pride as an “Ely boy”.
However, more than anything, Jimmy will be remembered for his love for his family and spending time with them.
Jimmy will be sorely missed by siblings Karen and Russell, grandchildren Osian, Gethin, Sonny and Delyth, children Peter, Andrew and Katie, and Kayleigh, Daniel and Llinos.
His funeral will be held at 12.45pm on Thursday, August 8 at the Church of the Resurrection in Ely.