Sara Manwell Bradford, PLA died on February 15, 2025, at the age of 82 after a brief illness. Her passing was shared by the Rhode Island ASLA Chapter, of which Bradford and her husband Derek were founding members.

Bradford was known for her advocacy for the preservation of natural open spaces. According to her obituary, she received a BA from Connecticut College in 1963 and a Master of Landscape Architecture from the University of Pennsylvania in 1965.

 
While in school, she met Derek Bradford, her husband of 52 years who was also a Landscape Architect and educator at the Rhode Island School of Design. The two founded Rhode Island-based landscape architecture firm Bradford Associates and were founding members of the Rhode Island ASLA Chapter (ASLA RI) when it began in 1986.

In addition to her involvement with ASLA RI, Bradford also an active member of the Rhode Island Tree Council, the Board of Examiners of Landscape Architects, and the Mile of History Association, which is involved in preserving historic Benefit Street in Providence, RI. Her certifications include her license

Throughout her career, Bradford worked on various parks and public-facing projects throughout Rhode Island, including Ten Mile River Greenway, Patriots Park, Benefit Street, and Prospect Terrace Park. Her portfolio also includes numerous residences along the New England coast.

Sara Bradford is survived by two children, two sisters, three grandchildren, and her dog.

To read the obituary an information about the upcoming service, go to: https://www.oneillfuneralhomes.com/obituary/sara-bradford

To see some of the work done by Bradford Associates, go to: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/landscape-architects-and-landscape-designers/bradford-associates-llc-pfvwus-pf~562547715