City court employee dies in crash

Amanda Barfield

Amanda Barfield will long be remembered for her loving and giving spirit. It is that spirit that had her traveling on an Arkansas highway last Thursday night. Amanda, along with her husband Traye and their friend Brad Jordan, all of Whitehouse, were bound for a church they had been working on for the past six months. Work would be complete with just a few more touches and the placing of the steeple.

These three would not reach that work site. According to the crash report submitted by the Arkansas State Police, the vehicle that Jordan was driving was struck head-on by a vehicle traveling the wrong way on U.S. Highway 67.

Jordan and Mr. Barfield were transported to the hospital. Jordan was released Sunday. Mr. Barfield remains in a Little Rock hospital. Mrs. Barfield did not survive the crash.

This 32-year-old mother of one was not only active in her church, but also in the Whitehouse community.

"Amanda was always on the Thanksgiving families and Christmas families committees," said Erin Blacksher, Whitehouse Women's Civic League president. "She would usually help with the Community Wide Easter Egg hunt and was always there."

Mrs. Barfield was a court clerk for the Whitehouse Municipal Court since Sept. 27, 2004.

"Amanda was a Godsend and a delight to work with and be around," said Stefani Wright, Whitehouse city secretar y. "She treated everyone around her with kindness. Just a complete delight! Amanda will be greatly missed by her co-workers at the City of Whitehouse."

Several other co-workers had thoughts to add to Wright's comments.

"She was always bubbly and cheerful," said Susan Hargis, administrative secretary. "I never saw her in a bad mood or angr y. She always treated everyone with kindness and great respect. She was the kind of person that you would want to be and that you would want to have as a friend."

Jed Dillingham, the city's financial director added, "She was always a ray of sunshine… pleasant, cheerful, and friendly."

"Amanda's life was a great example for all to follow," said Vicki Hawkins. "Her marriage and family, in my opinion, were the best."

"As a court clerk it is difficult to maintain such an attitude, she did," said Municipal Judge Mitch Shamburger. "No matter what problem arose she would approach it with a smile. She lived her personal life in the same manner."

Shamburger continued, "Her passing is a reminder to us all how fleeting and frail life is. Also, we should live each day doing good, as though it may be our last. Our prayers go out to the family, friends, and coworkers.

"As a faithful servant to the city, community, church, and this court she will be greatly missed."