Gabriel Taft Bradshaw

Gabriel Taft Bradshaw, born on March 31, 1988, entered his heavenly home to join his loving grandparents and infant sister on Wednesday, February 22, 2023. He was deeply loved by his parents, siblings, extended family, and friends.

He was the son of Perry and Anna K. Bradshaw and a sibling to Dusty, Casey, Jeremiah Bradshaw, and Bethany Baxley. He was preceded in death by his sister Genny Marie Bradshaw, his paternal grandparents Vance and Vivian Bradshaw, and his maternal grandparents Ray Preston and Shelby Karriker.

He graduated from South Rowan High School where he was an award-winning swimmer and an honor’s scholar. Gabriel was an Eagle Scout who worked hard to become a member of the Order of the Arrow and was recognized by the city as a Community Leader in 2006.He, also, was a graduate of Appalachian State University with a Bachelors of Arts degree in 2015 with a major in English, minor in Sociology, and a concentration in Creative Writing from the College of Arts and Sciences. He spent much of his adult life in Boone, North Carolina. His mannerly and gentle spirit was a testament to his genuine ability to honor those in his life.

Through his struggles with mental health he fostered a positive trajectory in his last months spending it with his family at their home. Their time together was spent playing cards, chess, and helping his mother and father in and around the house, and caring for the beloved family animals. He was a valued member in his work environment and was a positive influence to his colleagues.

His love of our Lord and belief in Christ helped others who needed a witness. We hope that Gabriel’s life and death will be a catalyst for mental health conversations in and around our community. The family asks that instead of food or flowers that you show support in the way of a memorial donation designated to NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Health) of North Carolina (at naminc.org) in memory of Gabriel Bradshaw.

The service arrangements for Gabriel will be on Saturday, February 25, 2023, which falls on his Papaw Ray Preston’s first heavenly birthday. Viewing will be at 12:00 PM followed by a service at 1:00 PM at Concordia Lutheran Church in China Grove, NC. Burial will be at the church cemetery following the service.