Plona "Frances" Rose Bardwell

Plona "Frances" Rose Bardwell, age 81, of Glenwood, passed away on Friday. December 19, 2025. 

She was born on September 24, 1944 in Corpus Christi, Texas. She was the daughter of Samuel Riley Rose and Evelyn Blake Rose. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, William "Leon" Bardwell; and her daughter, Jacqueline Dawn Bardwell Norton. 

On April 1, 1961 Frances married the loved of her life, Leon Bardwell. At the time of her husbands passing they were married 58 years. She was a devoted member of Bethel Missionary Baptist Church where she loved decorating the church at Christmas time and serve and clean the church. She worked as a telephone operator with Allied and Alltel. Later she worked at Baker's Grocery Store. Frances loved caring for others. She was a caregiver to many and had many "chosen" children that would fill her home. Frances was a loving wife, mama Frances, nanny, sister, aunt, and friend and will be missed by all who knew and loved her. 

Survivors include two sons, Darren Bardwell and Riley (Melissa) Bardwell all of Glenwood; her six grandchildren, Tyler Norton of Searcy, Jacey Bardwell, Lauralee Bardwell, Grayson Bardwell, Rylyn Bardwell, and Saylor Bardwell all of Glenwood; her special niece, Tracy (Joe) Miller of Glenwood; her special great-nephew, Jacob (Kara) Barrett; and many loving nieces, nephews, extended family members, and a host of wonderful friends.

Honorary pallbearers will be Dr. Matthew Hulsey, Dr. Divers, and their staff. 

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Bethel Cemetery Association, 65 Crews Road, Glenwood, AR 71943.

Visitation will be held prior to services on Saturday, December 27, 2025 from 10:00 AM until 11:00 AM at Bethel Missionary Baptist Church.

Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, December 27, 2025 at 11:00 AM at Bethel Missionary Baptist Church with Bro. Kenny Williams officiating.

Interment will be held at Bethel Cemetery.

Guest Registry can be found at www.smithfamilycares.com