Janelle Burks

Marian "Janelle" Burks, 86, of North Little Rock passed away peacefully in 2025.  She was a devoted wife, daughter, sister, mother, and grandmother who touched the lives of everyone who knew her.

Born on August 28, 1939, in Hickory Plains, AR to the late Raymond Holland and Dorothy (Smith) Holland, Janelle graduated from Cabot High School in 1956.  Shortly after, she married her high school sweetheart, Jon Burks, and together they shared 69 wonderful years of marriage.

Janelle and Jon were blessed with three sons--Greg, Todd, and Chris.  Throughout her life, Janelle held many jobs, but her favorite role was as the owner of Janelle's, a beloved dress shop first located in the Other Center and later in Lakewood Village.  She had an eye for style and a heart for people, qualities that made her business--and her life--shine.

While Janelle's love for her children was unwavering, her adoration for her grandchildren was unmatched.  She took immense pride in each of them and celebrated their every accomplishment.

A long-time member of First United Methodist Church of North Little Rock, Janelle faithfully served on numerous committees, was an active member of the Builders Sunday school Class, and attended worship regularly until her battle with Alzheimer's disease made it difficult to do so.

Janelle is survived by her husband, Jon Burks of North Little Rock; her sons: Greg (Kim) Burks of Lonoke, Todd (Karen) Burks of North Little Rock, and Chris (Renee) Burks of Sherwood; and her six grandsons--Parker Burks of Fort Worth, TX; Sandy (Katy) Burks of Conway; Addison (Faith) Burks of Sherwood; Scott Burks of Lonoke; Graham Burks of North Little Rock; and Mackenzie Burks of Alamogordo, NM.  She is also survived by her sister, Joan (Mike) Pehosh of Bella Vista; her brother, Fred (Kristina) Holland of Washington; her brother-in-law, Don Burks and Sister-in-law Carmelita Burks of North Little Rock ; and many other cousins and family members whom she loved deeply.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Raymond and Dorothy (Smith) Holland.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt appreciation to all of Mom's friends and loved ones who supported and cared for her throughout the years.  We would especially like to thank Carmelita Burks, Mom's dearest friend.  For decades, they shared weekly movie outings, countless meals, and many memorable trips together.  Carmelita's unwavering love, loyalty, and companionship were a constant source of joy and comfort.

The family also wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Fox Ridge and Gentiva Hospice for their exceptional care and compassion during Janelle's final weeks.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at 2:00 PM, Thursday, November 6, 2025  at First United Methodist Church of North Little Rock, 6701 JFK Blvd., NLR, AR  72116.  Visitation will begin at 1:00 PM prior to the service.  Interment will be at Mt. Carmel Cemetery, Cabot.

Smith North Little Rock Funeral Home, 1921 Main St., North Little Rock, AR  72114.  501-758-1170.