Keith Elbert Bradshaw

Keith Elbert Bradshaw, 68, of Hickory, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on October 1, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on November 2, 1956. Keith was the son of the late Clarence Bradshaw and Dolly Bradshaw. He grew up in Morganton, NC and was a 1975 graduate of Freedom High School. Keith went on to serve his country with honor in the United States Army from 1981 to 1989.

Keith had a passion for helping others, which led him into the field of nursing. He earned an Associate Degree in Nursing from Western Piedmont Community College and later achieved a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of North Carolina Wilmington in 2020. Keith was a Registered Nurse and a Certified Pediatric Emergency Nurse, dedicating more than 30 years of his career to the Emergency Department at Catawba Valley Medical Center. Known for his skill, compassion, and calm presence in times of crisis, Keith touched countless lives during his decades of service. He was awarded CARE Employee of the Year in 2013, a recognition of the excellence and heart he brought to his work.

Beyond his professional life, Keith was a man who lived fully and joyfully. He was known for his bright smile, quick wit, and the way he could tell a joke that left everyone laughing. He was a gentle soul with a generous spirit, someone who made others feel valued and loved. Keith had a remarkable gift for making everybody feel like “somebody,” a quality that endeared him to all who knew him.

Keith was devoted to his family, who were the heart of his world. He shared 28 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Jessica Bradshaw. Keith also leaves behind his son, Dawson Bradshaw, his daughter, Ashlee Bullard, his granddaughter, Annabelle Bullard, his sister, Karen Bryant, her husband, Andy, and his niece, Amanda Welty.

Keith found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He loved volunteering with the Walkin’ Roll league, hiking, jogging, spending time outdoors, and attending concerts and car races.

Though Keith will be deeply missed, his legacy of kindness, service, and love will continue to live on in the lives he touched.

The family will receive friends from 12pm to 1pm Saturday, October 4, 2025 at Sossoman Funeral Home. The memorial service will begin at 1pm in the Colonial Chapel of the funeral home with Rev. Shawn Milburn officiating.

Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.