Barbara Jean Tweddle Aday

Barbara Jean (Tweddle) Aday, age 84, of Little Rock, Arkansas, went to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on October 10, 2025. She was born in Pinkneyville, Kentucky, on January 17, 1941, to loving parents, Martin and Laverne Tweddle, who nurtured in her the kindness, faith, and compassion that would define her life. She is preceded in death by her siblings, Charlie Tweddle, John Tweddle and Geraldine Tweddle, whom she loved and admired dearly.

Barbara was the devoted wife of Leo Aday, her husband of more than 67 years. Their marriage, which began on April 4, 1958, in Greenville, Mississippi, was a true love story — one built on unwavering devotion, laughter, shared adventures, and deep faith. Leo’s steadfast love and care for Barbara throughout their life together was a living example of what it means to love unconditionally.

Together, Barbara and Leo built a beautiful family that became their greatest joy. She is survived by their three children:  

 Kimberly Jean Sherwood (John) of Fairborn, Ohio 

Shawn Leo Aday (Karen) of Sherwood, Arkansas

 Lily Jean Aday of Little Rock, Arkansas

Barbara was a proud grandmother to 13 grandchildren: Sarah Ricks (Marc) of Dickinson, ND; Rachel Sherwood of Fairborn, OH; Erica Morris (Matt) of Carlisle, AR; Lance Aday (Brandi) of Jacksonville, AR; Matthew Sherwood (Gina) of Baltimore, MD; Katherine Browning (Kolton) of Jacksonville, AR; Joseph Sherwood (Dominika) of Columbus, GA; Luke Aday of Keo, AR; Zakkary Pierce of Little Rock, AR; Dillon Pierce (Haley) of Benton, AR; Samuel Sherwood (Taelor) of Logan, UT; Ethan Pierce (Lucas) of Springfield, MO; and Summer Henderson (Dustin) of Benton, AR.

She also cherished her three step-grandchildren: Brittney Weidman (Trent) of Fort Worth, Texas; Brandon Burroughs (Jamie) of Springville, Alabama; and Kaitlyn Hingle (Baily) of Cabot, Arkansas.

Barbara’s legacy continues through her 20 (and counting) great-grandchildren: Gavin, Michael, Tristan, John, Gabriel, Elijah, David John, Benjamin, Tobias, Eli, Archer, Simon, Evelyn, Carsyn, Anita, Chiara, Charlotte, Peighton, Waylon, Colter, and soon-to-arrive, Sawyer.

Barbara lived a rich and full life, overflowing with love, creativity, and service to others. She was known by many as “the sweetest person I know,” a reflection of her gentle spirit and her Christlike love for everyone she met.

A devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Barbara’s faith was the cornerstone of her life. She shared her testimony and the good news of Jesus Christ with everyone she encountered, living her faith through kindness, compassion, and quiet strength.

In her younger years, Barbara was an avid runner, often participating in races alongside Leo. Together, they remained active throughout their lives — walking, hiking, and enjoying nature daily. One of their greatest adventures was hiking the Grand Canyon from rim to rim in just three days, a testament to their shared determination and love of life.

Barbara could often be found riding her bike through the neighborhood or hiking up Pinnacle Mountain — sometimes even in her high heels. Her joyful energy and zest for life inspired everyone around her.

In her 50s, Barbara decided to pursue a lifelong dream and completed her education to become an EMT/Paramedic, serving her community with compassion and skill.

Barbara was also a gifted creator. She found joy in making jewelry, art, floral arrangements, home décor, photo collages, and holiday crafts — each piece infused with her warmth and creativity. She and Leo also owned and operated The Stripling Company, where they taught first aid and CPR and provided first aid supplies to businesses and industries across the region.

Barbara’s life was one of faith, family, and love. She touched countless lives with her kindness and will be remembered for her radiant smile, gentle heart, and unwavering devotion to her loved ones.

Visitation: Thursday, October 16, 2025 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM Smith Funeral Home 8801 Knoedl Court, Little Rock, AR

Funeral Service: Friday, October 17, 2025 11:00 AM The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 13901 Rodney Parham Road, Little Rock, AR

Burial to Follow: Traskwood Cemetery, Traskwood, Arkansas

Barbara’s family would like to thank all who have shared their love, prayers, and support during this time. Her life was a blessing, her memory a treasure, and her love will live in our hearts forever.