Bob J. Sykes went to his eternal home in Heaven to be with Jesus on December 24, Sykes was born on November 23, , in Ft. Smith, Arkansas to Preston and Mary Sykes. He spent his formative years in Ft. Smith and attended Ft. Smith High School. Bob married Gayle Sykes, also of Ft.
Smith, and together they created a life that far exceeded their small town dreams. Sykes dedicated much of his life to the betterment of Hot Springs through his civic mindedness and numerous, innovative investments, which included being the founder and first president of Magic Springs theme park. Sykes also began the Fourth of July tradition of shooting off fireworks from his lake home, which became so popular with the locals that for years he put on the annual Lake Hamilton fireworks show. In addition to owning and operating many successful businesses in the Hot Springs area, Bob served as President of the Hot Springs Chamber of Commerce, for which he was honored by President Bill Clinton for his distinguished and exceptional service to the city of Hot Springs.
In business, Mr. Sykes was known for his innovative ideas, keen negotiating skills, no nonsense attitude, and for always keeping his word. Sykes took more pride in the accomplishments of his children and grandchildren than anything else. He is also survived by five beloved great-grandchildren and numerous cousins and friends. Sykes is preceded in death by his parents, Preston and Mary Sykes, and former wife, business partner and lifelong friend, Gayle Sykes.
Sykes, you left this world better than you found it. A funeral is scheduled for January 3, at a. An interment at Woodlawn Memorial Park, Ft. Smith, AR to follow the service. All are welcome to attend. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to St. Monday, December 26, Audie Kelley. He was a veteran of the US Army. Audie was a pipe fitter for the railroad. Services are pending. Arvel Eugene Keylon. Arvel was retired from the US Air Force.
Bill Sanders officiating. Interment will be 1 pm Friday at Ft. Smith National Cemetery, Ft. Smith, AR. Saturday, December 24, Melba Mae Slack. Her brother Bill will always remember her for calling out his elementary school teacher for spanking him, in spite of being forewarned that he had injuries to his backside.
