Barbara Bradley Smith, 80, of Ridgecrest passed away July 26, 2024 at Trinity View Senior Living Community in Arden. Barbara was a life-long resident of Buncombe County where she spent her time spreading the love of God with anyone she encountered. As a graduate of Wake Forest University, Barbara had a passion for her Demon Deacons. Atlanta Braves baseball also claimed her as an avid fan.

Before her retirement, she was a school counselor in Henderson and Buncombe Counties, having received the distinction of North Carolina Elementary Counselor of the Year in 1997. Barbara was a member of First Baptist Church of Black Mountain and enjoyed sending out daily devotionals to inspire those around her.

She was reunited in death with her parents, Lee and Violet Bradley as well as siblings Bill Bradley and Linda Robinson. Perhaps the sweetest reunion, however, was with her son Jeremy Tad Wilson.

Carrying on her legacy is son, Jeff Wilson of Fletcher; daughter Katrina Fox and husband Chris of Fletcher; granddaughters Kaitlin Mundy and Kara Violet Roberts of Asheville; brothers Bob Bradley of Winston-Salem and Mike Bradley of Black Mountain as well as sisters Patty Manley of Old Fort, Judy Harrell of Asheville, and Martha McMahan of Ridgecrest.

The family will receive friends on Wednesday, July 31st from 1:00- 2:00 PM at Harwood Home for Funerals on W. State Street in Black Mountain. A celebration of life will follow directly after.

Flowers are accepted and appreciated, but those desiring to make a memorial contribution are encouraged to consider Four Seasons Hospice. All surrounding Barbara in her last days greatly appreciate the compassion and love provided by Hospice.