Ardis Hearn

Ardis (Ann) Barkhurst Hearn, 59, a longtime resident of Prattville, Alabama, passed away on Thursday, September 23, 2021 in her home surrounded by family. Ardis fought a valiant 21-month battle against pancreatic cancer; a fight that reminded everyone of her incredible strength.

Ardis was born on July 18, 1962 to Betty Jean (Walden) and Paul David Barkhurst and in the Beale AFB, California hospital. She spent her younger years living in California, North Dakota, and Nebraska before the family settled in Alabama. Ardis graduated from Stanhope Elmore High School in 1980 as Salutatorian and then received her bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering (1987) from Auburn University, her MBA (1991) from AUM, and graduated from the Air Force’s Air War College in 2009.

Ardis had a challenging career of more than 30 years working for the US Department of Defense in her capacity as Engineer, Software Specialist, Contract Specialist, and College Instructor.

Ardis was a loyal Auburn football fan, an avid reader, loved traveling, and hosting family gathering.

Ardis is survived by her husband, Neal Hearn of Prattville, AL; children Dr. Madeline Dru Hearn of Mobile, AL; son David Neal Hearn and wife Elizabeth Schloss of Montgomery, AL. Her mother, Betty Jean (Walden) Barkhurst predeceased her. She is survived by her father, Paul D. Barkhurst of Prattville, mother-in-law, Zama Hearn of Prattville, siblings Marti Barkhurst Martinez (Lawrence) of Gainesville, VA; twin sister Phyllis Dru Barkhurst of Eugene, OR; brother Paul D. Barkhurst Jr. (Beverly) of San Antonio, TX; and Charles Barkhurst (Laura) of Wright Patterson AFB in Dayton, OH. She is pre-deceased in death by youngest brother Ragan Walden David Barkhurst (1977-2021). She is survived by a multitude of aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews who she valued greatly. Pallbearers are her brother, Charles Barkhurst, Nephews Lance Hearn, Thomas Ryan, Richard Martinez, Grant Barkhurst, and Carl Martinez.