Barbara Cunningham

Barbara L Cunningham, 78, of Fort Smith, passed away early Sunday morning, October 5, 2025 in Fort Smith Baptist Hospice.

She was born July 31, 1947 in Fort Smith to John R. Gartrell, and Bobbie (Monk) Gartrell.

She had many names; Barbara, sis, mom, grandma B, Aunt, or friend. She had so many that she loved and cared for, and that loved and cared for her.

Barbara was preceded in death by her parents, Bobbie Monk Gatrell and John R. Gartrell; her brother, George Gartrell; and grandson, David Shawn.

She is survived by two brothers, James Lewis of Fort Smith, and John R. Gartrell of Checotah, OK; four daughters, Kathryn Chronister of Dover, AR, Lenda (Mark) Betts of Iowa, Debbie Cunningham of Iowa, and Tammy Fielder of Fort Smith; two sons, David Gipson of Fort Smith, and Shawn Cunningham of Ireland; seven grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

There will be no funeral service, as requested by Barbara. Cremation is under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home.

Online condolences may be sent to, www.edwardsfuneralhome.com