Bradley Dwayne Gadberry
Bradley Dwayne Gadberry, age 66, went to be with Jesus, his Lord and Savior, after a courageous battle with glioblastoma cancer.
Brad was born on October 18, 1958, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, to Riley and Patsy Gadberry and later moved to Webb City, Missouri. He graduated from Central Christian Academy and went on to study at Rhema Bible College. He had one brother, Brian Richardson (Cindy), of Webb City, Missouri, whom he loved dearly.
On March 31, 1984, Brad married the love of his life, Kim Gadberry. Together, they raised two daughters, Jennifer Gibbens (Julie) and Ashley Smith (Nick), who were the light of his life and his greatest earthly treasures. Brad’s family was his heart, and he poured his love into every moment with them. He found joy in every moment spent with his grandchildren: Parker, Christian, Skylar, Eli, Owen, Kyzer, Summer, and Vayda. He loved them fiercely and fully. His greatest joys in life were his family and his faith, and he lived every day with that devotion.
As a young man, Brad became actively involved with Central Christian Center—formerly Central Assembly—where he served passionately in the bus ministry. As a captain, he joyfully brought children to church each week, often going above and beyond to ensure they made it. He fondly recalled knocking on doors and even stepping in to help get kids ready when their parents were still asleep. Many of those children, now grown, still remember his kindness and dedication.
Brad later became the youth pastor at Central Christian Center, serving in that role for 18 years. He was deeply invested in the lives of the youth, leading countless adventures—from summer church camps, mission trips to Mexico, and mid-year conferences, to theme park outings, lock-ins, concerts, and whitewater rafting trips. Brad always believed in doing things with excellence, often echoing the words of his father: “If a job is worth doing, it’s worth doing it right.” His events were filled with food, fun, and meaningful connection, and they left a lasting impact on generations of young people.
In addition to his youth ministry, Brad also led a Bible study for many years, where he shared his love for God’s Word and encouraged others to grow in their faith.
Beyond his ministry, Brad was a man of many talents. After retiring from church leadership, he opened a photography studio in downtown Joplin. His passion for photography touched many lives through weddings, school events, sports games, businesses, and especially through the lens he turned lovingly on his grandchildren.
Brad had a green thumb and took pride in growing plants from seeds during the winter, ensuring a vibrant and beautiful garden by spring. He was also a wonderful cook and baker, known for making cakes for his grandkids and having a warm, home-cooked meal ready for Kim every evening.
Above all, Brad’s life was defined by his unwavering faith in the Lord, his servant’s heart, and his deep love for people. He performed many weddings and funerals and was always ready with a helping hand at church or in the community. He was a devoted husband, father, papa, brother, pastor, and friend. Brad’s legacy of love, service, and faith will live on in the many lives he touched.
He will be deeply missed, but we rejoice in knowing he is now in the presence of Jesus.
“Well done, good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:23
A celebration of life will be held at the Joplin Church of God 7th day, 2225 N. St Charles Ave. Joplin, MO 64801 on Sunday, August 31, 2025 at 2:00 pm
Arrangements are under the direction of Ozark Memorial Park of Joplin, MO
