Edward Jr Brady

Edward Junior Brady, lovingly known as Big Ed, passed away peacefully at home on July 16, 2026, at the age of 90. He was born on October 24, 1935, in Fairview, Utah to Benjamin Glenn Brady and Janeal Marshall Brady.

Edward married Ardis Lael Shumway on July 28, 1955, in the Manti, Utah Temple. Together, they were blessed with 71 years of marriage.

Edward's early life was marked by hardship. After the loss of his father, circumstances left him and his brothers to care for one another. At just 8 years old, he began selling firewood and doing whatever he could to help put food on the table for his brothers. Those early experiences shaped the foundation of a man who would spend his life making sure others were cared for.

Later, Edward and his brothers were welcomed into the home of his foster parents, John and Ganeal Alldridge. They opened their hearts and their farm not only to Edward, but also to his three brothers, Glenn, Clifford, and Devon. Together, they worked on the farm, caring for chickens, cows, and horses. Edward learned the values of hard work, integrity, and family, and he was later awarded a prize calf at the county fair in recognition of his care and dedication.

Edward loved the time he spent on the farm in Rock Canyon and often said John was the best father he had ever known. The love and stability he received there stayed with him throughout his life, and he carried those lessons forward in everything he did.

To many, Edward was known simply as Grandpa-and he filled that role with love, generosity, and devotion. He made it his mission to serve others, including through many years in the Scouting program. He served as Scoutmaster in his troop, attended three National Jamborees, and shared one of those experiences with his sons, Chuck and Chris. Edward received Scouting's highest honor, the Silver Beaver Award, and served for two years as Scoutmaster of the Cambodian Branch.

Edward had a deep love for the outdoors, including boating, hunting, fishing, camping, and snow skiing. Some of the family's most memorable vacations were spent enjoying the outdoors together.

Edward was a faithful and dedicated member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He served in three bishoprics and in three temples: the Salt Lake Temple, Jordan River Temple, and Taylorsville Utah Temple.

Edward graduated from Brigham Young University with a bachelor's degree in business management in 1968. This accomplishment required great sacrifice as Edward and Ardis worked part-time jobs at Ruff's Garage in Springville, Utah. Edward did body and fender repair work on cars, while Ardis sewed seat covers to help make ends meet. Through determination and hard work, Edward earned his college degree and graduated with no debt.

After graduation, Edward purchased Randall's Body Shop on State Street in Murray, Utah. As owner and manager, he built a successful body and fender repair business. Some of his children and grandsons worked alongside him, learning from his example of integrity and hard work.

Edward's legacy lives on in every act of kindness he showed to those around him-at work, among friends and family, and to anyone in need who received one of his rotisserie chickens.

Edward is survived by his wife, Ardis Lael Shumway Brady; his children, Susan Brady Beckstead Tanner (Brad), Britanna Brady Halladay (David), John Brady (Anita), Karen Brady Montoya (Willie), Cindy Brady Bean Bickel (Bryan), and Chuck Brady (Camille); 20 grandchildren; and 36 great-grandchildren, and counting.

He was preceded in death by his brothers, Glenn Brady, Clifford Brady, and Delmont "Bud" Brady; his sisters, Dorothy Brady Starks and Beth Brady; his sons, James Edward Brady and Christopher Edward Brady; and his great-granddaughter, Kenzley Hatathlie Montoya.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the private CNA caregivers, Refined Hospice, and the Cornerstone CNA caregivers for their help and compassion during this difficult time.