Madlyn Bradford, a beloved member of the Mount Vernon community, passed away at her residence on Tuesday, October 13, 2026. Born on Monday, May 24, 1954, in Mount Vernon, IL, Madlyn is the daughter of Gaylord Heck (Pedad) Wells and Sarah (Carlton) Fairchild. She married Loyd Sunny Bradford on October 9, 1968, and he survives in Mt. Vernon.
Madlyn was the cherished mother of Sunny Lee Bradford, Tawana Sweetin, and Justin Bradford and his wife, Jill, all residing in Mount Vernon. She was also the proud grandmother of Eric Bradford, Zack Bradford, Emily Sweetin, Shelby Sweetin, Carsun Bradford, and Avery Bradford, who all filled her life with joy and love.
Known for her warm heart and generous spirit, Madlyn is survived by her sister Theresa Yanez of Mount Vernon, sisters-in-law Francine Shehorn of Mount Vernon, Diane Shehorn of Decatur, Linda McKinley and her husband Dennis, Tracy Frassato, and Becky Drennan with her husband Stan. Her cherished brothers-in-law include Johnny Bradford and his wife Sharon, Jason Bradford and his wife Kathy, and Richard Kerins; several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Madlyn was preceded in death by her parents, Gaylord Wells and Sara Fairchild, her son, Sunny Lee Bradford, grandparents Gay and Minnie Wells and Cary and Gussie Carlton, and her in-laws Loyd and Dorthea (Phillips) Bradford. She is also reunited in peace with her brothers Alva (Butch) Shehorn and Neal Shehorn, brothers-in-law Roy Yanez Jr., David Bradford, Jackie Bradford, and Sam Toney, and sisters-in-law Billie Kerins and Loy Sue Toney and son-in-law Quentin Sweetin.
Madlyn was known in the community as the owner of a successful delivery service. Her dedication to her work and commitment to excellence were well respected by both her clients and peers.
Cremation rites will be accorded, and a private family service will be held at a later date. Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home at 235 North Sycamore Street in Centralia, IL 62801 (618) 532-3523, is honored to be of service to Madlyn’s family. Online condolences may be made to the family by visiting http://www.
Madlyn’s legacy of love, strength, and kindness will forever resonate in the hearts of those who knew her.
