Tuesday, April 20, 2010

Bradley's story as told by brother James Moody, Jr.

This story was lovingly written by Bradley's brother Officer James "Jamie" Moody, Jr., for the January/February 2009 Issue of Vacaville Magazine.
Note: Since the article was published, James Moody, Sr. left our earth and joined Bradley in Heaven ~ RIP "Moody Boys"
Bradley Alan Moody: A Hometown Hero

Bradley Alan Moody was born in Honolulu, Hawaii on June 27, 1979 to now retired Air Force MSGT., James Moody Sr., and Elizabeth Moody. Brad has an older brother, James Moody Jr., and a younger sister Jennifer Moody. The family moved from Hawaii in 1981 and have lived here since.

Bradley grew up in Solano county and attended schools in Travis Unified School District. Before he began the first grade he shared with his mother that he wanted to be a police officer so that he can make this world a better place. It was then he began to set high goals for himself. He graduated with Honors from Vanden High School in 1997 and was a member of the undefeated, State Champion, football team in 1996. Immediately after high school he enrolled to attend Solano Community College. His goal was to get an AA Degree in Criminal Justice. While attending college, he also joined the campus police department as a police aide to become more familiar with police duties. In June of 1999, he received his two year degree in criminal justice and in liberal arts.

After college he attempted to get sponsored by police departments all over the west coast. He was unsuccessful and got discouraged but never gave up trying. His dream was to be a police officer and he was determined to make it a reality. He enrolled himself into the police academy at Los Mendanos Community College in Pittsburg, CA. He was a member of class 143 and graduated in Dec., 2000 and was number three in his class. He also was recognized as the Top Athlete and Top Shooter of his class. Immediately following his graduation ceremony, Richmond Police Department conducted an interview at the college. They did not want him to pursue other departments. He went through the hiring process and was sworn in Feb., 2001.

He completed his probationary status with flying colors and began his beat in a two man unit located in the worst part of downtown Richmond. His success in this rough neighborhood kept him on this beat for the rest of his career. As his job success continued, he began to focus on his next goal, find the woman of his dreams. It was in July 2002, when he found her. Right under his nose he met, then dispatcher for Richmond Police Department, Susan Filippi.

Their love for each other grew and on May 1, 2004 they tied the knot. They purchased their home in Dixon and began their lives together. They knew they wanted children and in August of 2005 they gave birth to their first baby girl, Madison. Then 18 months later they completed their family and added Emma to the picture. His three girls were his pride and joy.

Bradley’s dedication to his family and job was noticed by everyone that knew him. As a police officer, he continued to offer himself in different capacities. He became part of the SWAT team and K-9 team where he got his latest partner Rico. He was appreciated by the department, community, and his family for his courage and commitment to excellence. He made an impact on so many lives. Brad Moody was a cop’s cop. He had a reputation for being fair and consistent to everyone. He always did the right thing . He was dedicated and respectful.

On Oct. 4, 2008, Bradley Moody crashed his patrol car into a light pole when responding to a call for back-up. He was removed from life support on Oct. 7, but not before he donated his organs. One of the recipients had less than 24 hours to live if he did not receive a heart transplant. On Bradley’s last day on earth he saved a life. Moments before his accident he also received two commendations for two separate occasions where he removed two illegal guns off the streets. He dedicated his life to his community and did it with pride.

Bradley has been referred to as a strong, courageous, honorable, selfless and noble man both at work and in his personal life. He had the attributes of a street-tough warrior and the heart of a loving husband, father, son, and brother.

Although losing Bradley has been a huge tragedy, the Richmond Police Department has been there to show an extreme amount of support. It is clear that both the department and his loved ones have lost an integral member of their families. The family wants to extend a special thanks to the department for their continuous outpouring of gratitude, love, and support. The police department has also set up a Memorial fund in the memory of officer Bradley Moody. Contributions can be made at Mechanics Bank in Richmond or mailed to Mechanics Bank, 3170 Hilltop Mall Rd., Richmond, CA, 94806. To send a memory or condolence please visit Bradley-moody.last-memories.com.

Bradley you are missed by so many people. Although you are gone you will never be forgotten. Until our paths cross again, we will think of you everyday and will continue to love you very much. Watch over us, and protect us as you always did.

1 comment:

  1. Amazing article James!! You Moody men are true hero's!! Proud to know you all!

    ReplyDelete