A celebration of life honoring Samantha will be held Thursday, March 12, 2026, from 5:00PM-7:00PM at FairHaven Funeral Home, in Macon, GA.

A celebration of life service will also be held at 11:00AM Saturday, March 14, for all of Samantha’s family and friends in and around the Dodge County area, at Southerland Funeral Chapel, with Rev. Ricky Gilmore officiating. A memorial visitation will be held from 10:00AM-11:00AM Saturday, March 14, in Southerland Funeral Chapel.

Samantha was born January 12, 1988, in Jacksonville, Florida, to Mr. Louie Keith “Bubba” Burkes and Ms. Pamela Ann Bowen. She lived life on her own terms, a true free spirit with a vibrant personality and a heart full of creativity. Samantha loved crafting, singing, and acting, and she could often be found browsing thrift stores or making a fun stop at Dollar Tree. She adored the beach, cherished the colorful nostalgia of Lisa Frank, and never tired of watching her favorite movie, Fried Green Tomatoes. Known for her spirited nature and persuasive charm, Samantha was a bit of a spitfire who loved deeply, even while keeping much of her life private. Above all, she loved her family and friends and chose to live life freely and authentically.

She was preceded in death by her grandfathers, Louie C. Burkes, Arthur Campbell, James Marshall, and Ronnie Peacock; and by her cousins, Candi Jones and Rachel Pittman.

Left to cherish her memory are her mother, Pam Bowen; her father, Louie Keith “Bubba” Burkes and his wife, Shirley (Bonus Mom); her brothers, Levi (TiffyJo) Burkes, Justin Burkes, Ben (Amanda) Butterworth, and Brandon Butterworth; her bonus brother, Keaton Pittman; her sister, Becky (Heather) McKeon; along with many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family members who will forever carry her memory in their hearts.

Samantha’s free spirit, creativity, and love for life will be remembered always by those who knew and loved her. In lieu of flowers please make a donation in Samantha’s name to any animal charity of your choice.