Carmelita Burks

Carmelita Wooley Burks lived 85 years the way most people only dream of — fully, generously, and without ever really slowing down. She passed away peacefully on February 23, 2026, leaving behind a husband of 67 years, a family she adored, a church she helped build, and a community she served with her whole heart.

Born on April 1, 1940, at St. Vincent Hospital in Little Rock, Carmelita was the fourth of six surviving children born to Imogene and Hubert Wooley. From early on, she had a spark that was impossible to miss. At Jacksonville High School, she captained the cheerleading squad and was named a senior homecoming maid — a preview of the energy and presence she would carry throughout her entire life.

In 1956, she met Don Burks, and by 1958 — shortly after graduation — they were married. It was a partnership that would last 67 years and produce two devoted daughters, Jennifer and Melinda. Don and Carmelita built a life together that was rich in love, adventure, and purpose.

Never one to stop learning, Carmelita enrolled in the liberal arts program at UALR and graduated summa cum laude with a BA degree in 1984. She channeled that curiosity into a second act as a travel consultant, guiding groups of friends and clients to destinations spanning four of the seven continents. She continued serving her loyal travelers right up until her passing — because for Carmelita, retirement was never really on the itinerary.

Her faith was a cornerstone of her life. She was a founding member of Indian Hills United Methodist Church and played a central role in its merger with First United Methodist Church of North Little Rock. She was a longtime member of the Builders Sunday School Class and served on or chaired nearly every committee the church had to offer — including making history as its first female Chairman of the Administrative Board. Her service extended into the broader community as well, where she co-chaired the Basic Needs division for United Way, served as Board President of Family Services Agency, and volunteered as a mentor and tutor in the North Little Rock School District.

Those who knew Carmelita often reached for the same words: spunky. Generous. Unstoppable. She climbed the Great Wall of China in her 70s. Well into her 80s, she was walking at least a mile a day and showing up faithfully to Yoga and Zumba classes. Her great-granddaughter Caroline called her a hero — and it's hard to argue with that.

Family was everything to her. She cherished weekly dinners with her siblings, looked forward to vacations with her children and grandchildren, and made a point each week to visit her disabled brother, Hugene, and share special outings with her sister-in-law and dear friend, Janelle. She had a gift for seeing the best in people, and she gave her love without reservation.

Carmelita is survived by her beloved husband, Don Burks of North Little Rock; daughters Jennifer (John) of Euless, TX, and Melinda Gunnell (Jim Gunnell and Dale Wallace) of North Little Rock; five grandchildren: Amy (Phil) Laney of San Antonio, TX, Evan (Ashley) Elder of Lafayette, CO, Trey (Caty) Elder of Broomfield, CO, Jess Gunnell (Meredith Wallus) of Little Rock, and Savannah Gunnell Law (Clay) of North Little Rock; and four great-grandchildren: Caroline, Hazel, and Carson Laney, and Gus Law. She is also survived by her brother Bob Wooley (Bonnie) and sister Tanya Sorrells (Keith), along with many beloved nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Hubert and Imogene Wooley; brothers Hugene and Donald Wooley; and sisters Juanita Manchester Booth, Mary Sharlene Wooley, and a sister who passed in infancy.

Celebration of Life Saturday, February 28, 2026 First United Methodist Church of North Little Rock Visitation at 10:00 a.m. | Service at 11:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made in Carmelita's memory to First United Methodist Church of North Little Rock.