Ethel Louise Burks

Ethel Louise Burks, born on June 21, 1951, in East Prairie, Missouri, passed away on December 4, 2025. Ethel lived a life characterized by her fiery spirit, generosity, and unwavering love for her family. She was a true firecracker, quick to speak her mind, quick to forgive, and always ready with a bit of playful sass. Beneath that spark was a deep well of compassion, and she carried a genuine willingness to help others whenever she could. She opened her heart freely, offering kindness, understanding, and support to anyone who needed it. 

Ethel dedicated many years to volunteering at the Care Center, along with her efforts at the local food pantry and soup kitchen, displaying a commitment to helping the less fortunate despite her own modest means. She understood the importance of kindness and always made time to lend a helping hand. 

Camping and fishing were two of her favorite pastimes. Ethel relished the simple joys of traditional camping at Lake Catherine, opting for tents over modern conveniences. She also had a deep love for animals; for as long as her children can remember, she always had pets she adored and treated as part of the family. Above all, her family was her pride and joy. She cherished every moment spent cooking for her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, creating a warm, loving environment where everyone felt cared for and valued. 

Ethel leaves behind her children: Regina Burks, Jo Ann Combs, Joseph Wayne (Jerri) Burks, Anthony H. Burks, and Danielle Chitman. She was the proud grandmother of Christopher Childress, Harold Johnson, Amber Dempsey, Brandon Johnson, Joseph Burks, Scott Burks, Doyle Burks, Rylan Murphy, Isabelle Burks, Jada Burks, Keviauna Thomas, Keidrah Thomas, Kiyah Chitman, and Stephen Chitman, Jr., as well as a great-grandmother to 20 great-grandchildren who brought her immense joy. 

She is also survived by her siblings: Phyllis Wilson, Deloris "Debbie" Hutcheson, Roy Bennett, Ray Bennett, and Kay Thornberry. Ethel was preceded in death by her parents, Roy Bennett and Martha Ivy Wilson. 

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Smith Benton Funeral Home, 322 N. Market St., Benton, AR, followed by a funeral service at 2:00 PM. 

Ethel Louise Burks will be dearly missed, yet her legacy lives on not only in the hearts of those she loved most but also in the countless lives she touched through her years of volunteering and everyday acts of kindness. Her strength, humor, and generosity leave a lasting imprint on her family, her community, and all who were fortunate enough to know her.