Born to WJ and LaNell, Leslie grew up with her brothers, Randy and Jay Bartley. From an early age, she was captivated by books, devouring them at an accelerating pace. Her thirst for knowledge went beyond literature. In her teens, she started working as a photographer for the local paper, immersing herself in the craft. With her parents' support, she converted their garage storage room into a photo-developing lab, demonstrating her drive and creativity.
Leslie also excelled in athletics despite her small stature. On the basketball court, she was quick and fierce, earning recognition as an all-state guard. Golf became another lifelong passion, and she continued to play throughout her life, even achieving several holes-in-one. These pursuits reflected her resilience, competitiveness, and joy in challenges.
As a college student, Leslie's hunger for knowledge accelerated rapidly. She took the maximum course load allowed and graduated a year early with a bachelor's degree in petroleum geology and a minor in English. Her intelligence and work ethic caught Yates Petroleum's attention, and she moved to New Mexico to begin her career as an exploration geologist with them, seeking out and discovering many wildcat oil and gas fields beneath the vast skies of the Southwest.
Entering the oil industry in the early 1980s, Leslie stood out not only for her expertise but also for her courage. At a time when few women were in this field of study, she carved out a space for herself through determination, intelligence, and resilience. Her success was a testament to her pioneering spirit and her ability to thrive in environments where few women had ventured before.
It was during these years that Leslie's family began to grow. Shortly after arriving in New Mexico, she welcomed her first son, Andrew, followed by her second son, Bradley, two years later. Balancing the demands of an exploration geologist and motherhood, she dedicated her energy to both her career and her children. Her boys were the joy of her life, and she instilled in them the same curiosity and determination that characterized her own journey. Over time, her family grew again when Andrew welcomed a son, AJ, bringing Leslie deep joy in becoming a grandmother.
In her 40s, Leslie made a selfless choice to step away from her career to care for her brother Randy for many years until his passing. This dedication showed her deep loyalty and strong love for her family. She also faced the loss of her father, WJ, carrying forward his memory with grace and resilience.
Her love of learning never faded. In her 40s, she went back to school, turning her English minor into a full bachelor's degree and earning additional degrees in literature and history. This impressive achievement showed her lifelong dedication to knowledge and her belief that education is a never ending journey.
Creativity was woven into Leslie's life as deeply as her intellect and perseverance. As her brother Jay Bartley reflected, any artistic endeavor she attempted painting, writing, photography she excelled at. These pursuits revealed her ability to see the world with imagination and beauty.
She leaves behind a legacy of curiosity, kindness, and devotion. Her life story is one of brilliance, sacrifice, and love for learning, achievement, and most of all, her family. Leslie is survived by her sons, Andrew and Bradley; grandson, AJ; mother, LaNell; and brother, Jay Bartley, along with loved ones who will forever cherish her memory. She was preceded in death by her father, WJ, and brother, Randy.
There will be a private family burial in Union Ridge Cemetery. You can sign Leslie's guestbook here on her page.
Condolences(5)
Laura Robbins
Weatherford, TX Sunday, December 14, 2025 LaNell sorry for your loss .David Langley
Baton Rouge, LA Sunday, December 14, 2025 Bless her heart and my condolences to the family. Leslie was a good friend and classmate.Marianne Zeno
Maumelle, AR Sunday, December 14, 2025 Dear LaNeil & JB, The last few days, I have rewound all the great times in my mind that I shared with Leslie. What a group we were! How blessed we were to grow up and have the childhood we had. Memories that can’t be erased with time. She will always be in my heart and every fond memory. I will never forget how hard she fought. I hope and pray you both are at peace knowing her battle is over and now she is in the arms of Christ. I know that Randy and WJ were waiting at the gate to let her in. I love you both and please know I am with you in spirit during this very difficult time. ❤️🙏🏻STEVE DAVIS
Little Rock, AR Friday, December 12, 2025 Growing up in Monticello was the best life ever. Living on Jefferson Street, across from the Mckievers, and all the neighborhood kids around where all the moms knew where each child was, was a blessing. My memories of Leslie are bright. Ms Lanelle has done such a job caring for her kids over the years. Leslie has left many wonderful memories and will be missed.Zachary N. Cooper
Crossett, AR Friday, December 12, 2025 My condolences to your family during this difficult time.