Barbara Sue Whitley

Barbara Sue Whitley, 81 of Thornton died Wednesday August 13, 2025 at St. John’s Place in Fordyce. Born June 18, 1944 at Thornton, she was a daughter of the late Gurtman and Jewel White James.

She was a member of Thornton First Baptist Church and was a retired elementary school teacher, having taught at Thornton and Bearden Schools.

Other than her parents, she was preceded in death by two brothers, Bill T. James, Jimmy James; and a sister, Jo Ann Cayce.

She is survived by her husband, Paul Whitley of Thornton; three children, Chance Whitley of Thornton, Joy Moody of Thornton, Faith Manes (Scott) of Thornton; five grandchildren, Josh Langley (Haley), Jim Moody, Krystle Moody, Jewel Manes, Jordan Manes (Penny); two great-grandchildren, Whitley James and Bayler Jack; and many nieces and nephews.

Graveside services will be 10:00 a.m. Saturday at Thornton Cemetery. Arrangements are by Benton Funeral Home of Fordyce. To sign the online register visit www.bentonfuneralhome.net.