Bedford Neal Oliver Jr (BJ)

Bedford Neal Oliver Jr., also known as BJ, was born on December 22, 1957, in Dayton, Ohio, to Emma Lee Love-Oliver and Bedford Neal Oliver Sr. BJ was a vibrant person whose passion has touched the lives of many.

From a young age, BJ was a lover of sports, excelling as a boxer and earning numerous accolades—including five Golden Glove Championships—testament to his dedication and skill. A huge fan of the Dallas Cowboys since the age of eight, BJ’s enthusiasm for life extended beyond the athletic arena. He enjoyed playing basketball, bowling, cracking jokes that brought smiles to everyone around him, singing from his soul, drawing cartoons, and showcasing his natural talents. His big heart and love for family and friends shone brightly, maintaining lifelong friendships from his childhood days in the High View neighborhood in Dayton, Ohio. In 1995, BJ moved to Las Vegas, Nevada. He dedicated himself to his work and spent his latest years as a security sergeant at the Fremont Street Experience. His commitment and exemplary service earned him numerous awards, including being named Employee of the Year in 2022.

BJ loved the Lord passionately. He was a proud member of the gospel group, The Valley Messengers, also known as the Valley Boys, based out of Valley, Alabama.

BJ’s journey took him to Las Vegas, Nevada, in 1981, where a trip with his cousin Nathaniel Dickens to do photography changed his life forever. It was during this visit that he met the love of his life, Symradora. Their love story blossomed, culminating in their marriage on October 11, 1986, in Dayton, Ohio. Soon after marrying, they moved to Columbus, Georgia, and in the summer of 1995, they moved to Las Vegas, Nevada. Since then, the couple’s union has been blessed with decades of shared love and adventure. BJ’s legacy lives on through his beloved wife of 39 years, Symradora; his children, Marquita, Stephen, Dominic, Brandon, Jasmine, Briell, and Kiana; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, grandchildren, and friends who will forever cherish his memory. He is preceded in death by his father, Bedford Neal Oliver Sr.; his mother, Emma Lee Love-Anderson; his sister, Rhonda Chancellor-Holloway; and his brother, Rick DiSalle Love.

Today, we honor BJ’s life—a man who touched hearts with his kindness, talents, and unwavering faith. His legacy will continue to guide us forward. We will miss him.