Henry Stradford

Henry Stradford, Sr was born in Camden, SC on June 7, 1931.  After graduating from Jackson High School, he attended Allen University where he played Tackle for the Allen Fighting Yellow Jackets, and obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Physical Education.  After serving in the US Military, he continued with his education, earning a Master’s Degree in Physical Education from Indiana University. Mr. Stradford taught school and coached football and track in both the Jackson and Camden school systems. He led the Camden High School track team to win the school’s first South Carolina State Championship in 1992. Mr. Stradford was a great mentor and “2nd Father” to many in the community, and continued to serve as a community volunteer up to his passing. Mr. Stradford is survived by his wife Edna (Steed) of 62 years, sons Henry (Kim) Stradford Keith (Michelle) Stradford, (daughter Karen Stradford-Wright preceded his passing in 2014), grandsons Markell (Joycelyn) Stradford and Joshua Stradford, granddaughters Alexis Stradford, Alesia Stradford, Madison Stradford and Camdyn Stradford, 3 great-grandchildren, and several cousins, nieces, and nephews. “I lived a blessed life, and so thankful for everyone who allowed me to be a part of theirs. Honored by the military to serve alongside our country’s bravest, privileged to have so many gifted athletes accept me as their coach, and humbled to know that several thought of me as their mentor. My wife, children, and grandchildren filled my life with limitless pride and unconditional love. The number of cherished family members and friends, I cannot count. Yes, I lived a blessed life. And with the life HE gave me, my belief is I used it to help someone, my hope is I used it to inspire someone, and my wish is we all use ours to help and inspire one another.”