Barbara "Barbie" Jean (Amedee) Wellman, age 80, of Benton, passed away on August 9, 2025. She was born November 11, 1944, in Pratt, KS to Dutch and Evelyn Amedee. Not long after her birth, the family moved to Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and Barbie considered it her hometown. Her parents were both natives of Louisiana, and she always spoke affectionately about the time she spent with her grandparents and other family in the area.

Barbie was known for her love of learning and always made good grades in school. She had one daughter, Chirstine, who she affectionately called "Cricket" or "Cookie". Her primary focus was caring for her daughter and family. She also spent free time tutoring English.

She had several passions, including sewing, playing piano, knitting, camping, and enjoying the outdoors. She loved spending time with her family and having game nights. Her heart was with all of God's creation, and she was passionate about donating to the welfare and conservation of animals. She felt closest to her Maker when caring for His creatures. Some of her most cherished memories were with her beloved pets. She kept a playful spirit throughout her life. When asked what animal she would be, she picked an otter because of their sweet and fun disposition. She loved Jesus and looked forward to the day when she could look on the face of her redeemer. Her gentle spirit and humble heart will be cherished by all who knew her.

She is preceded in death by her beloved father Adolph "Dutch" Amedee and mother, Evelyn Amedee, as well as her sisters, Diana Amedee and Linda Baumbach. She is survived by her daughter, Christine, her brother and sister-in-law, Richard and Lois Amedee, her nephews and nieces Jacob, Ruben, Cherri, Dawn, and Francis, as well as many other family and friends.

A memorial service will be held on Sunday, September 7, 2025 at 2pm at the Benton Seventh-Day Adventist Church, 2615 Congo Road, Benton, AR, 72019.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations in her honor to ASPCA, https://secure.aspca.org/donate/memorial Or Peaceful Valley Donkey Rescue https://donkeyrescue.org/donate/