of Higden, AR

December 12, 1938 - June 20, 2025

Barbara Jo Brawley (née Shelby), 86, of Higden, Arkansas passed away peacefully on Friday, June 20, 2025 at Salem Place Nursing and Rehab in Conway, Arkansas. Mrs. Brawley was born in Paducah, Kentucky to Ross and Effie Mae Shelby. She was one of three girls and two boys. Her older sister became Francis Qualls of Bartlett, Tennessee; while her younger sister became Donna Welborn of Atlanta, Georgia. Her two brothers were David Shelby of Peoria, Illinois and James Shelby of Quitman, Arkansas.

Barbara began her professional life as a Surgical Scrub Nurse at Campbell's Clinic in Memphis, Tennessee. She later devoted herself fully to raising her family, becoming a dedicated and loving mother and homemaker. For nearly five decades, Barbara was the beloved wife of Thomas Brawley. Together, they made their home in Higden and were faithful members of Sugar Loaf Baptist Church. A cherished member of the Higden and Greers Ferry communities, Barbara will be remembered for her generosity, selflessness and the many ways she gave of her time to help others. Barbara had a passion for square dancing, walking, gardening, caring for animals and watching the local wildlife. Her support of the Heber Springs Humane Society reflected her compassionate spirit and love for all creatures.

She is survived by her two sons, Tommy Brawley (Kelli) of Conway and Michael Brawley (Debbi) of Edgemont and her grandchildren, Zachary Brawley (Hayley) of San Antonio, Texas, Page Brawley of Springdale, Arkansas and Rachel McEnany (Paul) of Gunter, Texas.

Barbara leaves behind a host of nieces and nephews, Evelyn Van Pelt of North Little Rock, Arkansas, Terrie Hansen of Gallatin, Tennessee, Monica Morrison of New Vienna, Ohio, Lorrie and Rebecca Shelby of Peoria, Illinois, Bobby Qualls of Bartlett, Tennessee and Jerome Shelby of Peoria, Illinois.

Her sons lovingly remember her as a woman to be admired--for her enduring strength, her sacrifices and her unwavering care for family and friends.

Barbara will be laid to rest beside her husband at Woodland Memorial Park overlooking the serene waters of Greers Ferry Lake on Monday, June 30th.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations in her memory to the Heber Springs Humane Society at www.heberspringshumanesociety.com or by calling 501-362-7322.

Obituary Provided By:
Roller-McNutt Funeral Home
Highway 65 South
Clinton, AR  72031
www.rollerfuneralhomes.com