Canton, Georgia Bids Farewell to Southern Gospel Pioneer

News Summary

The Southern Gospel music community mourns the loss of Patty ‘Pat’ Bradbury, a trailblazer in both the music and Christian literature fields. Her multifaceted contributions as a bookstore manager, radio program innovator, and community advocate left a lasting legacy in Chattanooga and beyond. Her dedication to service and faith touched the lives of many, ensuring her memory will endure. A Celebration of Life service is scheduled for March 15, 2025, to honor her impact.

Canton, Georgia – A Heartfelt Farewell to a Southern Gospel Music Pioneer

On February 28, 2025, the world said goodbye to a beloved figure in Southern Gospel music and Christian literature, Patty “Pat” Bradbury. She peacefully passed away at her daughter’s home in Canton, Georgia, leaving behind a legacy that will not be forgotten.

A Trailblazer in Chattanooga

Born and raised in an era when opportunities for women in business were limited, Pat made her mark as one of the first women to manage and operate a downtown business in Chattanooga, Tennessee. In around 1968, she became the manager of Pathway Books, a division of Pathway Press, located on Market Street next to the local Orange Juice bar – a favorite hangout for customers. Daily, she relished a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice, a simple pleasure that brightened her busy days.

Transforming the Airwaves of Chattanooga

Pat’s influence extended beyond the bookstore; she was a pivotal player in introducing Southern Gospel music to the airwaves via WDOD FM, a local radio station. An essential meeting with General Manager Bill Nash led to the launch of a new program called “Dixie Campmeeting.” This airwave innovation debuted in March 1969, with Pat contributing several dozen Southern Gospel albums from her company’s warehouse in Cleveland, TN, in exchange for advertising space on the station. The program featured the heart-warming theme song “Joy in the Camp,” penned by Bill and Gloria Gaither and recorded by the talented Speer Family.

A Community Advocate and Friend

During her tenure, Pat was more than just a bookstore manager; she became a respected figure within the community. Felix Miller from Miller Brothers recognized her as a pioneering woman during a live broadcast from her store. Additionally, her close friendship with Ruth Lanham, owner of Lanham’s Bible Bookshop, showcased her commitment to fostering connections within the Christian book community. Together, they often attended Christian Book Sellers Conventions, furthering their passion for literature and music.

A Legacy of Service and Music

Pat’s illustrious career with Pathway Press spanned over 35 years, during which she climbed the ranks from bookstore manager to the Marketing Director for a chain of Christian bookstores. Even amidst her managerial responsibilities, she dedicated time to assist customers at the Cleveland, TN, Pathway Books location. The local community, including Mayor Tom Rowland, frequently praised her hands-on service, a testament to her dedication to customer satisfaction.

Organizing Gospel Music concerts for WDOD FM, she helped bring renowned artists like Martin Cook, the Inspirations, and the Speer Family to the stage, enriching the local music scene. Her extensive collection of Gospel LPs became a cornerstone for music lovers in the area.

A Passion for Cooking and Catering

In addition to her many talents and contributions, Pat was also known for her culinary skills. She often shared her home-cooked meals with friends and customers alike at her Market Street store. After retirement, she pursued her love for cooking further by starting Bradbury Catering, providing delicious food for numerous events throughout the community.

A Devotion to Faith and Family

Pat was not only a successful businesswoman and community leader but also a devoted Christian for over 70 years. She was a long-standing member of North Cleveland Church of God, where her faith guided her actions and relationships.

Survived by her two daughters, Linn Mathis and Kelley Burnett, along with several grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Pat leaves an indelible mark on the hearts of those who knew her.

A Celebration of Life

Friends and family are invited to remember Pat during a visitation and Celebration of Life service scheduled for March 15, 2025, at the Dixon Chapel of North Cleveland Church of God. As the community gathers, they will honor Pat Bradbury, a kind-hearted, hardworking individual who made lasting contributions to Southern Gospel music and the Christian book community. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

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Additional Resources

• Chattanoogan: Patty Eugenia Bradbury
• Wikipedia: Southern Gospel
• Chattanoogan: Pat Bradbury Believed In Downtown Chattanooga
• Google Search: Patty Bradbury
• Chattanoogan: Edward Lee Frye Sr.
• Google Scholar: Southern Gospel Music
• Chattanoogan: Lester Lashaun D. Summerville
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Southern Gospel
• Chattanoogan: Greeson Jack Robert Bob Dalton
• Google News: Patty Bradbury