John M. Bradley now resides in Clark county, near Donnelsville, but for many years he was closely connected with the agricultural interests of Miami county, and therefore deserves representation in this volume. He has many friends in the community, being well and favorably known in this section of the state. His birth occurred in Adams county, Pennsylvania, December 26, 1840, and during his boyhood he was brought to Ohio by his parents, who located at Donnelsville. The father died in early manhood, but the mother survived him and lived to an advanced age. No event of special importance occurred during the childhood and youth of John M. Bradley, who grew up on a farm and in the public schools pursued his education. He was thus trained to habits of industry and became well qualified for business life. In 1866 he was married to Miss Samantha E. Funk, who was born in West Charleston, Miami county, and was a daughter of Jacob and Amy (Mott) Funk. The father was of German birth, but the mother was of English. By trade he was a blacksmith, and for a number of years the family resided near Paris, being one of the old families of the state. The mother reached a very advanced age. Their daughter, Mrs. Bradley, was twice married, her first husband being Philip Armstrong who died during the period of the civil war, being accidentally killed in a political rally. He left a widow and one son, Philip Damascas Armstrong, who resides in Bethel township, Miami county. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Bradley were born two sons, Firman J. and Albert A. The latter with his wife, who bore the maiden name of Ethel Flook, now resides in Donnelsville. The mother, Mrs. Samantha Bradley, died January 7, 1896, at the age of fifty-two years, and later Mr. Bradley married Mrs. Eunice Beebee.

Mr. Bradley is a very enterprising agriculturist, conducting his business interests in a very systematic manner, the well-tilled fields yielding to him a good return for his care and labor, and the many improvements on his place and its neat appearance indicate his careful supervision. He has from one to three acres planted to tobacco, and in addition to general farming he makes a specialty of the breeding of thoroughbred Jersey cattle. He is a member of the Christian church at Honey Creek. His well spent life has recommended him to the regard and confidence of his fellow men and those who know him appreciate his good qualities, and therefore give him their friendship.