Lynda Kay Burford

Lynda Kay Burford, 82, of Hot Springs, departed this life on July 12, 2023. Born March 19, 1941, in Dequeen, Arkansas, to Herman W. Davis and Kate Ward McCullough, she is preceded in death by her parents, stepfather Curtis McCullough, her sister Sandra Watts, her son H. John Burford III, and her son-in-law Shan Scott.

She is survived by her devoted husband of 59 years, John Burford, Jr. She is also survived by her daughter Lynda Joy Burford Scott of North Little Rock, daughter-in-law, Kristina Burford Noah of Conway, grandchildren Devin Scott (Amelia) of Little Rock, H. John “Jay” Burford IV, (Kayley) of Conway, Sam Scott of North Little Rock, Savannah Scott of North Little Rock, and Anna Burford of Conway, sister-in-law Ara Yanker (Jerry) of North Little Rock, and brother-in-law Myron Watts of Clarksville, Texas, nieces Jennifer Watts, Lisa Watts, Amy Ayers, and nephew Mark Yanker.

Lynda was a dedicated educator. Lynda taught homebound and Family and Consumer Science in the Hot Springs School District. She shared her knowledge with countless students over her 30-year career. Lynda was a talented cook, seamstress, needleworker, and knitter.

Lynda was a long-time member of St. Luke's Episcopal Church in Hot Springs. Over the years, she served her church in various capacities, including as a member of the Vestry and a devoted church choir member.

Lynda studied music under the renowned opera singer, Marjorie Lawrence, and was often called upon to sing the National Anthem at various event. In addition to her talents as a singer, Lynda also loved playing the saxophone. She spent many years as a member of the Hot Springs Community Band. She enjoyed practicing with her bandmates and playing concerts for the community.

Her love of music and performance naturally brought her to the theater. She often had leading roles in local community theater playing key parts such as Mother Superior in the Sound of Music, Laurey in Oklahoma, and Anna in the King and I.

Living a healthy lifestyle and exercise were very important to Lynda. For years, you could find her each morning dancing away in her favorite Jazzercise class. In later years, she enjoyed her walks at the YMCA.

Lynda was a member of the PEO sisters of Hot Springs, a philanthropic organization dedicated to promoting educational opportunities for women. She valued the work and friendships she made in this organization through her many years of involvement.

The family would like to thank the many healthcare workers who supported Lynda through several medical journeys. A special thanks to Doctors Borg, Springer, and Pruitt for their support and friendship. Their compassionate care and concern for her were so appreciated.

A funeral service will be held at St. Luke's Episcopal Church, 228 Spring Street, Hot Springs, Arkansas, on Thursday, July 20, 2023, at 10:00 am—interment to follow.

In Lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in her name to St. Luke’s or the charity of your choice.

May Lynda's soul find eternal peace, and may her memory live on through the lives she has touched, the music she has shared, and the love she gave to so many.