Brett Barham

Brett Barham, 36, of Maumelle, beloved son, husband, father, brother, colleague, and friend left this world to join his Heavenly Father unexpectedly on Saturday, July 9, 2011. Survivors include his wife, Amber Barham; daughters, Adley and Adison of the home; parents, Gordon & Jan Barham; sister, Julie; niece, Janae; in-laws, Robert & Bridget Lehmann; brother-in-law, Shannon (Melissa); and his grandmother, Irene Barham. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, R. C. Barham, Bill and Geraldine Randle.
Brett grew up on a cattle ranch in Carrizozo, New Mexico and graduated from Carrizozo High School. He received his bachelors, masters, and doctorate from Texas Tech University and was a proud alumnus and Red Raider fan. While at Texas Tech, he utilized the experience gained in his many years of showing livestock and served as a livestock judge for which he won numerous awards. While at Tech, Brett met his future wife the former Amber Lehmann and his world was forever changed.
Although he was recognized for many things, including publication of his work in professional journals, Brett's proudest accomplishment was the birth and raising of his two daughters. Adley and Adison were the apple of their daddy's eye and there was no prouder daddy than he. Although he was raised around cattle, Brett quickly became a "girl dad" and even helped fix the girls' hair for cheer competitions. Brett was their biggest fan and although a quiet man, he made his presence known on the soccer sidelines and in the stands at cheer events. All who knew Brett appreciated his deep devotion to his family.
Brett was Associate Professor of Animal Science for the University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service and was President of the Arkansas Association of Cooperative Extension Specialists. He worked in education and research specializing in beef cattle breeding and genetics. Brett was committed to his profession and the betterment of the beef industry.
Visitation will be 6 – 8 p.m., Wednesday, July 13, at First United Methodist Church in Maumelle where Brett was a member. A celebration of Brett's life and the gift he was to this world will be at 10 a.m., Thursday, July 14, also at FUMC with Dr. Luke Conway officiating. Interment will follow at Riverwood Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Brett Barham memorial fund at any Arvest bank.
Arrangements by Little Rock Funeral Home, 8801 Knoedl Ct., Little Rock, (501)224-2200. To sign Brett's guestbook, visit www.littlerockfuneralhome.com.