Bartley Alvin Herring, of Bartlett, Tennessee, passed away on April 27, 2025, at the age of 75. Born on March 5, 1950, in Monticello, Arkansas, Bartley lived a life marked by dedication-to his country, his craft, and family.
Bartley proudly served in the United States Army after being drafted on September 17, 1969. He completed basic training at Fort Lewis before being stationed in Vietnam. During his service, Bartley earned the Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and the Good Conduct Medal. He was honorably discharged as an E-4 Specialist on April 21, 1971.
Following military service, Bartley embarked on a distinguished career as a steamfitter. A proud member of the United Association National Steamfitters Union for 47 years, he began his journey as a traveler out of Pine Bluff before transferring to U.A. Steamfitters Local 614 in Memphis. Over the decades, Bartley contributed to numerous significant projects across the region-including work at Dupont, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, the V.A. Medical Center, and The University of Memphis-leaving behind a legacy of craftsmanship and commitment.
Bartley's life was rich with passions that brought him joy and connection. He had a deep love for motorcycles and spent countless hours immersed in building and DIY projects. Whether gathered around bonfires with family or enjoying social gatherings with friends, Bartley cherished time spent with others. His adventurous spirit led him on road trips and camping excursions through mountain landscapes and along winding rivers perfect for canoeing. A fan of classic Westerns-especially those starring John Wayne-Bartley found comfort and entertainment in tales of rugged frontiers.
Bartley is survived by his beloved wife, Linda Herring; sons Jeff Herring and Jeremy (Laura) Herring; stepdaughters Stephany (Robert) Munoz, Rachel Goodnight; stepson David Goodnight; grandchildren Patrick Herring, Carter Herring, Braden Herring, and Kimberly Herring; great-granddaughters Adeline Reed Herring, Lainey Elizabeth Privett, and Harper Faye Herring; brother Barney Herring; and sister Nancy (Jerry) Sanson.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Azalea Kimbro Herring and James Murphy
Herring; and brother Damon Herring.
A person who valued hard work and heartfelt connections equally, Bartley's presence will
be deeply missed by all who knew him.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the
Wounded Warriors Project in honor of
Bartley's service to our nation. https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/
Arrangements have been entrusted to Memorial Park Funeral Home and Cemetery, 5668 Poplar Avenue, Memphis, Tennessee 38119 (901) 767-8930. "Where Memphis comes to remember, since 1924."
Published by The Daily Memphian on Apr. 30, 2025.