A rare collection of championship rings, gold coins, and jewelry once belonging to the late Fr. Ed Bradley, a beloved local priest and former chaplain to the University of Kentucky and University of Louisville basketball programs, will be auctioned next month to benefit Owensboro Catholic High School.
The auction, conducted by Kurtz Auction & Realty Co., is set for Feb. 17 at 10 a.m. at the Knights of Columbus Hall (3540 East 10th Street). Live bidding will be available in person and online at KurtzAuction.com.
Featured items include a 2013 University of Louisville 10K National Championship ring and a 2005 Final Four ring. Other collegiate rings and sports memorabilia from Bradley’s time alongside Hall of Fame coach Rick Pitino will also be up for bid. The collection includes rare gold pieces such as a 1978 Krugerrand, an 1881 Half Eagle gold coin, fine gold jewelry, and international collectibles from Bradley’s travels.
Bradley, who died on November 30, 2024, at age 81, left behind more than material possessions. He left a legacy of faith, service, and lasting relationships. A story published by OT following his death detailed how Bradley made a deep impact on both Pitino and Owensboro businessman Joe Iracane, serving as a spiritual mentor and close friend.
Bradley’s connection to Owensboro Catholic goes back decades. He served as dean of students and principal at the school and was pastor of Holy Name Parish in Henderson from 1995 to 2011. Raised on a farm in Grayson County, he later attended Bellarmine University and entered the Congregation of the Brothers of the Poor of St. Francis in Cincinnati before beginning his lifelong ministry.
All proceeds from the auction will go to Owensboro Catholic High School in honor of Bradley’s lasting commitment to education, faith, and community.
