Members of the Red Level town council welcomed an old friend back to the ranks Tuesday.

Joe Bradley was sworn in as a member to take the vacant seat of Kenneth Reynolds.

Bradley was elected to the council in 2000 , but did not seek re-election in 2008. He serves as captain of the Covington County Sheriff’s Office’s senior reserve program and can often be seen picking up up trash along the side of the road.

“The small town kind of neighborly love, that’s the spirit that Joe keeps constant in Red Level,” said Mayor Willie J. Hendrix. “Whether he knows you or not, he will give you a big wave, a huge smile and a kind word, to make you feel like you’ve known him all your life, and I’m thrilled he has found time to serve Red Level once again.”

Born in Brooklyn, Bradley chose to make his home with his wife of 47 years, Helen, in Red Level. He is a deacon at Second Brooklyn Zion and he also attends First Baptist Church of Red Level. The couple is blessed with three children – Renee, Chris and Reggie – and seven grandchildren.

He retired from Jefferson Smurfit in Brewton after 36 years of service.

Hendrix said he is looking forward to working with Bradley for years to come.

After taking his oath of office, Bradley said he would like to thank the people of Red Level, for having confidence in him, to welcome him back on council.

“I look forward to moving forward with the town and, with God’s help, I know we will,” he said.