John Daves Obituary

John Henry Daves III, 84, also known to friends as Jack, of Hot Springs, Arkansas passed away September 21, 2025. He was born December 6, 1940 in Fort Smith, AR to the late John H Daves II and Gweneth L Toller.

John attended high school at St Anne's Academy in Fort Smith graduating with the class of 1960. He proudly served in the United States Navy as a diesel generator mechanic. Using his Veteran Benefits, he attended a two-year welding program at Ark. Valley Vo-tech earning his certification. His welding skills were applied at Rheem Manufacturing for over 20 years. He was a member of the United Steelworkers of America.

John loved to ride motorcycles both on and off-road as well as stock car racing. He enjoyed building and flying model airplanes, r/c cars, and skeet shooting. John had an ear for music and although a stutterer he was the lead singer in The Joker's band during the middle and late 60's. As a lover of animals his best buddy for years was his four-pound Shih Tzu, Precious Barbie Doll. John was a giver to many charities and his fondest and joyful time was a volunteer Road to Recovery driver with the American Cancer Society.

A devout Catholic he attended Immaculate Conception church in Fort Smith, before moving to Hot Springs. He was a member of St. John's Catholic Church in Hot Springs.

Of all John's accomplishments being a father was his proudest and he cherished his relationship with his daughter. They enjoyed not only being neighbors, but lots of miles and smiles on their e-bikes. The Hot Springs Greenway Trail being a favorite.

John is preceded in death by his parents and sister, Becky Cox.

He is survived by his daughter, Tricie Daves.

A private service will be held at Forest Park Cemetery in Fort Smith, AR at a later date.

Special friends that brought him much laughter and joy - Bo and Wanda Holden of Booneville, AR. Mark and Jennifer Langley of Pueblo, CO. Betty Fredrick of Fort Smith, AR. Carla Marino and Sheila Fry of Hot Springs, AR. Sherrie Grasmehr-Woods of Gilbert, AZ. Lawrence and Barbara Duesman of Fletcher, OK. Doug and Kerry Kremers of Conway, AR.

Donations can be made to The Stuttering Foundation www.stutteringhelp.org