Barbara Jane Lewis Bradley

Barbara Jane Lewis Bradley, 78, of Charleston, Ill. (formerly of North Little Rock, Ark.) passed away Friday, May 6, 2016 in Urbana, Ill. after a recent cancer diagnosis. Barbara was born on Nov. 14, 1937, in Sheridan, Ark., to William Cuthbert Lewis and Lucille Celeste (Murray) Lewis. Barbara married William Moody Bradley on Nov. 27, 1959. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and son, William Robert Bradley. Barbara is survived by her daughter, Melissa Spencer, son-in-law Thomas Spencer, and grandchildren Michael Spencer and Julia Spencer, all of Charleston, Ill. She is also survived by her brothers, William V. Lewis (Connie) of Lafayette, Ind. and Robert N. Lewis (Pat) of Danville, Ind., as well as two nephews and a niece, all of Indiana. Barbara also leaves her beloved dog, Riley. Barbara was a graduate of Bauxite High School, class of 1955. As the winner of the Alcoa Scholarship, Barbara attended the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville. She was a member of Delta Delta Delta sorority. Barbara earned her bachelor's degree in journalism in 1959. After graduation, she first worked for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Little Rock in the public relations department. Barbara was a homemaker for several years while her children were young. She was an active volunteer in her children's schools, serving two terms as PTA president, perennial home room mother, and as a mentor and academic aide. She later worked in office administration and retired in 2002 after nine years with the Arkansas State Soccer Association in Sherwood. She was a member of First United Methodist Church in North Little Rock. Barbara was an avid reader, back yard bird watcher, animal lover, and bridge player. A memorial service will be held on May 26, 2016, 2 p.m., under the direction of Ruebel Funeral Home in Little Rock (www.ruebelfuneralhome.com). In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to the Central Arkansas Rescue Effort (www.careforanimals.org).