Barbara Diane Ford Bradshaw, age 71, of Lenoir passed away Tuesday, January 16, 2024 at her residence. She was born May 15, 1952 in Caldwell County to the late Jesse "Arlen" Ford and Clara Mozelle Tolbert Ford. In addition to her parents she is preceded in death by her father and mother-in-law, Pete and Peggy Bradshaw; and one niece, Leslie Ford McDougal.

Barbara embodied a woman who desired to serve her Lord, family, friends and community. She was happiest in the kitchen, where she had remarkable talents, particularly for baking. Whether it was desserts for the children at church, a pie for a family member's birthday, or a cake for a friend who came to mind, she believed in making loved ones feel special with a sweet treat. After surviving cancer and retiring from a long career at Greer Laboratories, she found joy in volunteering at the WIG Bank of Caldwell County and remained active in church activities, including the choir, as long as her health allowed. Barbara understood the value in sending cards to the grieving, visiting with her friends, spending quality time with her family, enjoying God's beautiful mountains and beaches, and most importantly, praying for her devoted husband, beloved daughters, treasured grandchildren, special family and those she loved.

Those left to cherish her memory include her loving husband, Terry Carson Bradshaw of the home; two daughters, Tara B. Smith (Tim), and Ginger B. Harmon (Shannon), all of Lenoir; two brothers, Dean Ford (Brenda), and Jesse Ford all of Lenoir; two sisters, Gwen Storie (Wayne), and Sandra Warren (Claude), all of Lenoir; one sister-in-law, Lynn Smith (Kenny); four grandchildren, Kyle Harmon (Madison), Jacob Smith, Katie Kirby (Bo), and Delanie Smith (Jesse), all of Lenoir; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held Friday, January 19, 2024 at 3:30 P.M. at Nelson's Chapel Baptist Church with Rev. Eddie Summerlin officiating. Interment will immediately follow in the church cemetery.

The family will receive friends prior to the service from 2:00 to 3:30 P.M. at the church.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the WIG Bank of Caldwell County, 226 Mulberry St SW, Lenoir, NC 28645.

Online condolences can be left at www.greer-mcelveenfuneralhome.com

Greer-McElveen Funeral Home and Crematory is assisting the Bradshaw family.