Jim Bradley, former Ontario MPP who served for more than 40 years, dies at 80

Jim Bradley, Niagara Regional Chair and second-longest running member of the Ontario legislature, has died at 80 years old.

Jim Bradley, Niagara Regional Chair and second-longest serving member of the Ontario legislature, has died at 80 years old.

Bradley died in St. Catharines on Friday “following a brief illness,” according to a news release issued by Niagara Region.

“He leaves behind a legacy of public service that has shaped the course of Niagara and of Ontario,” the release reads.

Bradley’s career in politics spans 55 years, starting with St. Catharines City Council in 1970 when he was 25 years old. Years later, starting in 1977, Bradley went on to represent the community as a MPP up until 2018.

He served 41 years at Queen’s Park, the second-longest tenure only behind Harry Nixon, Ontario’s 13th premier who had 42 years of parliamentary service.

“It is with a heavy heart that we mourn the passing of Jim Bradley, a dear friend and colleague to many,” the Ontario Liberal Party said in a post on social media.

Bradley wore a variety of hats throughout his career in politics, earning him the title of “Dean of the Legislature” as a result. He held several ministerial roles under David Peterson, Dalton McGuinty and Kathleen Wynne’s governments.

Bradley introduced the Spills Bill, which protected the province’s waterways and kept polluters accountable, and helmed the launch of the first Blue Box recycling program—a model that became globally recognized.

“His vision and integrity set a standard for environmental stewardship that continues to benefit communities today,” Niagara Region said.

The region added that Bradley’s leadership was instrumental in the development and creation of projects such as the St. Catharines Hospital and the Walker Family Cancer Centre and the FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre.

“He also championed major infrastructure and educational initiatives that helped modernize St. Catharines and improve quality of life for its residents,” the region said.

Before becoming a politician, Bradley was a teacher and an involved community member as a hockey and baseball coach, manager and referee.

In the release issued by Niagara Region, it included a statement from Bradley, who thanked the people of St. Catharines and Niagara for their trust and confidence in him over the years.

“Our system of democracy is a true treasure, and I have always regarded it as a great honour to be able to advocate for the needs and desires of our city, our region, and our province,” Bradley’s statement reads.

“To all of you who have reached out to me in friendship, camaraderie and kindness, not only during my illness, but throughout my career in politics: please know that you have been a great source of comfort and encouragement in so many ways, and I have deeply treasured our time together.”

Ontario Premier Doug Ford paid tribute to Bradley in a post on social media.

“Jim Bradley was a dedicated public servant who served the people of Niagara and Ontario as a teacher, MPP, minister and regional chair. My sincere condolences go out to his friends and loved ones,” Ford wrote.

Niagara Region said flags at its headquarters will be lowered in Bradley’s memory.