Stephen “Papa Yosh” Bradley

With hearts full of gratitude and reverence, we honor the life of Stephen “Papa Yosh” Bradley — a warrior in the name of the Most High Jah Rastafari. A devoted father, musician, and spiritual light, Papa Yosh ascended from this earthly realm on February 26, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, music, and divine purpose.

Born on October 23, 1962, in Cincinnati, Ohio, to the late Geraldine Bradley, Papa Yosh was a precious gift to his family. His beloved grandmother, Katherine Obanion, became his first guardian angel, affectionately calling him by her special name, “Guf.”

Papa Yosh shared a sacred bond with his siblings — Nadine Bradley, the late Mary Bradley (now resting in Zion), and Tommy “Ezariah” Bradley — cherishing a lifetime of memories, unity, and unwavering love. His brother-in-law, Julius Morrow, played a profound role in his life, offering guidance, respect, and brotherly companionship. Special aunts and uncles, Raymond & Gwen Obanion and Alberta Lewis, inspired him to always strive for excellence.

His favorite cousin, Holly McClain, shared an unbreakable bond filled with laughter and lifelong memories.

Papa Yosh’s musical journey began at a young age, playing the flute and marching band drums at Woodward High School, where he met his lifelong brethren, Mark “Little Ben” Smith.

His spiritual awakening began among the Hebrew Israelites, where he stood as a messenger of the Most High, reasoning on the Word with brethren. As his journey deepened, he found his spiritual home in the faith of Rastafari, where the teachings of Haile Selassie I became his guiding light. Seeking his roots and culture, Papa Yosh became a Djembe drummer with the Cincinnati African Unity Drummers and Dancers — one of the first pioneering West African drum and dance ensembles in the city. He later co-founded the All Seasons Band, a powerful collective of reggae warriors including Gershon, Yahazeal, Ruben Jacob, Eli Posey, Ben Smith, Ras Nathan, Tutu, and Terah. Their mission was to deliver the divine message of Roots Reggae music, uplifting minds and hearts. The band later united with the Enlightments, featuring the soulful harmonies of Leah Saho and Akelah Tafari, a.k.a. Lioness, blending sound and spirit into one harmonious vibration.

His greatest legacy is his family. With Sister Leah, he fathered eight beautiful children — Zed, Talie, Trinity, Judah, Farah, Tosh, Heavon —and his son Yoshua.

His grandchildren — Zedekiah Jr., Shemiah, Janiyah, Jamarion, Shakira, Odyssey, Kilynn, Halo, Antonio, Xavier, Iris, and Zoe — are the crown jewels who carry his legacy forward. In addition to his music ministry, Papa Yosh worked diligently at Samar Corporation and North College Hill School District, always giving his best in every task.

He leaves to cherish his memory a host of nieces, nephews, family members, and dear friends whose lives were profoundly touched by his kindness, wisdom, and unconditional love. On this day, we offer praises through the same vibrations he gave to the world. May the drums beat, the bass-line rumble, and the harmonies rise — for the Most High gave him the gift of music, and through that gift, he touched the hearts of many.

Papa Yosh walked this earth with a meek spirit and a lion’s heart. His voice will echo through generations, and his rhythms will forever vibrate in the hearts of those who knew him. His music lives on. His spirit lives on. His love lives on.

Haile Selassie I — Jah Rastafari

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