Calvin Burkes

Calvin Don Burkes, 79, of Hot Springs, “checked out” on December 10, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. Affectionately known as “Papaw,” Don was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend. He was the owner and operator of Spa City Automotive for 38 years and a long-time member of New Bethel Missionary Baptist Church. 

Don “checked in” on October 17, 1945, in Hot Springs, AR, to Calvin and Donna (George) Burkes. He was the devoted husband of Karon Jenean (Miller) for 60 years after the two met in the 8th grade at Hot Springs Central Junior High. Together, they raised two sons, Tony and Darin (“Dude”), who blessed them with four grandchildren: Dustin (Chrystal), Andrea (Justin), Erika (Ben), and Lauren (Cody). The greatest joy of Don’s later years was spending time playing with his great-grandchildren: Rylee, Laila, Bo, Jace, Carter, Bea, and Presley.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, his son Darin, and his siblings Laverne, Delvin, Virginia, and Bruce. He is survived by his sister Janice, sister-in-love Janie, and sister-in-laws June, Susie and Marilyn. 

A visitation will be held on Friday, December 13, 2024 from 6:00pm to 8:00 pm, and a funeral service to honor Don’s life will be held on Saturday, December 14, 2024 at 2:00pm at Smith Family Funeral Home, 2205 Airport Road, Hot Springs, AR 71913. 

Pallbearers will be Dustin Burkes, Justin Cotner, Cody George, Ben Dunn, Stan Miller, Duane Shaw, Kenny Kizer, and Robbie Terry. Honorary pallbearers include Freddie Sears, Chuck and Janice Hefner, Doug Hill, Mark Davis, Rick Johnson, Doug Todd, and John Fullen. Services will be officiated by Brother Bobby Lock, Brother David Roark, and Brother Brady Smoke.