Published in The Lake Report, October 22, 2026, page 34.
Hope Isabelle Bradley (née Elliott)
March 11, 1927 – Oct. 7, 2026
With deep love and gratitude for a long life beautifully lived, the family of Hope Isabelle Bradley announces her peaceful passing at home in Niagara-on-the-Lake on Oct. 7, 2026, in her 100th year.
Born in Niagara-on-the-Lake on March 11, 1927, Hope was the cherished daughter of the late “Daisy” Isabel Smith and James Elliott.
Hope is now reunited with her beloved husband, Allen William Bradley; her children, Bruce Bradley and Lynn Bradley; her grandson, Bradley Klassen; her siblings, Betty Elliott, Barbara Lake, and John Elliott; and her in-laws, Gary Lake, Bruce Sherlock, and Joan Elliott. Hope is survived by her loving siblings Heather Sherlock and Donald Elliott (Virginia).
Hope was the proud and loving matriarch of a large extended family. She was the devoted mother of Robert (Shelagh), Jim (Kathy), Mary (Alvin) Klassen, Bruce (Mary), Lynn (Carmen), Allison (Henry) Hildebrandt, and Paul (Ann-Marie). She was adored by her grandchildren: Leah, Stephane, Zoe, Courtney, Erica, Cameron, Michael, Tyler, Abby, and Allenah. She will be deeply missed by her many great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, neighbours, and friends.
As the keeper of the family lore, Hope possessed an enviable, prodigious memory that remained sharp until the very end. A lifelong resident of NOTL, her stories and memories were recorded and preserved by the NOTL Historical Museum for future generations to enjoy.
Hope’s life was defined by service, community, and a tireless work ethic. She was a lifelong member and former elder at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church. In 1949, she became a founding member of the NOTL chapter of the Canadian Cancer Society. Deeply involved with the Shaw Festival from its inception, she lent her time and support to the budding theatre in its earliest days, eventually serving as the festival’s receptionist from 1970 to 1986.
Her diverse career over the decades reflected her energetic spirit. During the Second World War and until 1955 (when it was destroyed by Hurricane Hazel), she worked at the Elliott family’s dance hall in Simcoe Park. She also worked as a Bell Telephone operator in NOTL, a factory worker for Sheaffer Pens in Toronto, a school bus driver, a fruit picker, a recreational director at Chateau Gardens, and in various retail roles across NOTL and St. Catharines.
Hope left an indelible mark on her hometown and on the hearts of everyone who knew her. Her legacy of warmth, community dedication, and family devotion will live on forever.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Karen Berti and the innumerable PSWs, in particular Ivy James, who looked after Hope with such profound care and kindness.
A church service will be held at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church (323 Simcoe St., Niagara-on-the-Lake) on Friday, Oct. 23, 2026, at 1 p.m. A celebration of life will follow at Caroline Cellars (1010 Line 2 Rd., Niagara-on-the-Lake) at 2 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Niagara Historical Society and Museum.
Arrangements entrusted to Considerate Cremation & Burial Services, 26 Nihan Dr., St. Catharines (between Lake Street and Scott Street), 289-362-1144. Online condolences may be made at CCBSCares.ca.
