Michelle Denise Dukes

Michelle Denise Dukes, age 61, of Hot Springs, Arkansas, passed away on July 17, 2026.

Born on August 10, 1964, in Stuttgart, Arkansas, Michelle was the beloved daughter of Donnie Howard and Bertha Howard Orrick. She lived a life rooted in faith, family, and unconditional love, touching the hearts of all who knew her.

Michelle was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Steve Dukes; her son, Dustin Wallace; her great-granddaughter, Bryelle Wallace; her father, Donnie Howard; and her stepfather, Bobby Orrick.

She leaves behind to cherish her memory her devoted son, Stevie Wallace (Brittany); daughter-in-law, Jessica Wallace; her loving mother, Bertha Orrick; her sister, Traci Bradshaw (Lee); her brothers, Ronnie Howard (Gail), Junior Webb, Matt Howard, and Farrell Howard (Katie); her treasured grandchildren, Landen, Jaxon, Kooper, Joslyn, Rowan, and Evelyn Wallace; her precious great-grandchildren, Nolan and Truett; as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends. She also leaves behind her lifelong best friend, Tereasa Galo, and her faithful canine companion, Duke.

Michelle’s greatest accomplishments in life were her children and grandchildren, who were the center of her world. She cherished every moment spent with them and could often be found singing songs, dancing whenever the opportunity arose, and creating memories that her family will treasure forever. Her love for her family was unwavering and evident in everything she did.

She found happiness in life’s simple blessings. Michelle loved spending time in the woods, on the water, reading her Bible, and listening to music. Her strong faith, kind heart, and appreciation for God’s creation brought her peace and inspired those around her. She lived with compassion, grace, and a joyful spirit that will never be forgotten.

Even in her passing, Michelle’s generous spirit continued to shine. Through the gift of organ donation, she made the selfless decision to give others a second chance at life. Her final act of kindness reflects the compassionate, giving heart she shared throughout her life and leaves behind a legacy that will continue to touch countless lives.

Though our hearts are heavy with grief, we find comfort in knowing that Michelle’s legacy of love, faith, and devotion lives on through the family she cherished so deeply and through the lives she blessed with her final gift. She will be forever loved, deeply missed, and always remembered.

A Memorial for Michelle will be on Saturday, August 1st, at Smith Family Funeral Home- Hot Springs, at 11:00 AM. Cody Bradshaw will be officiating.

Honorary Pallbearers will be: Steve Wallace, Killian Anderson, Cody Bradshaw, Lee Bradshaw, McKennon Gentry, Whitnei Bradshaw, Paul Wallace
The family asks everyone wear Michelle’s favorite color, Sage green, to honor her.