of Conway, AR
April 12, 1937 - May 20, 2022
Norma Jean (Baker) Kelley, 85, peacefully passed from this earth surrounded by family, on Friday, May 20, 2022. She was born in Leslie, Arkansas on April 12, 1937 to Buster and Jeanette (Harness) Baker, both of whom preceded her in death. She was an only child. Norma accepted Christ and was baptized at a young age and remained steadfast in her Christian beliefs throughout her life. She grew up in New Hopewell Baptist Church in Leslie, AR where she was the church pianist and remained a faithful member.
On November 9, 1956, she married her sweetheart, Bill Kelley, who survives her. They have had a wonderful 65 years together. Norma also leaves to cherish her memory, her daughter, Valerie Hayes of Fort Smith and granddaughter, Kelley Hayes of Fort Smith.
Norma grew up surrounded by several loving aunts, uncles and cousins. She was a 1955 graduate of Leslie High School. She loved to talk about being the manager of the girls high school basketball team. She was a proud Leslie Bulldog.
In 1960, Norma and her husband, Bill moved to Conway to raise their daughter and have remained Conway residents for over 60 years. Norma was a stay-at-home mom and homemaker. After her daughter graduated from college, Norma returned to work at the University of Central Arkansas Torreyson Library as a technical assistant. She became the library's first part-time employee and loved every minute of it for over 26 years. She cherished those friendships.
Norma deeply loved her family and friends and loved spending time with them. She was kind and always early. She loved cooking and was an excellent cook. She enjoyed playing the piano, meeting friends for a coke, watching Arkansas Razorback basketball games, playing card games, which included Skipbo, over the last several years, supporting Toad Suck Daze since it's inception and going with family to Branson a few times a year. Norma also loved holidays and celebrations. She always had decorations for every event, loving balloons. These traditions she has carried on through her granddaughter.
Our hearts are broken but we are at peace knowing she has been healed from dementia.
The family would like to thank Dr. Randal Bowlin, Nurse Courtney Perry and Hospice Home Care, Melissa Hight, Catelynn Abbott and Collins for the love and exceptional care they have given.
Honorary pallbearers are; Jim Acree, Charles Harness, Larry Lawrence, Johnny Mullins and Keith Mullins.
Funeral services will be at Roller-McNutt Funeral Home, 650 Central Landing Blvd., Conway, AR, on Friday, May 27, 2022 at 2:00pm. Visitation will precede the service from 1:00pm until 2:00 pm. The final committal will be held at the funeral home. Burial will be at East Lawn Cemetery in Marshall, AR.
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17 Condolence(s)
Susan Burks
Friday, May 27, 2022
Norma was such a sweet person who loved her family. May the Lord surround you all with His comfort and love during the coming days.
Rebecca Russell Baird
Thursday, May 26, 2022
All who attended New Hopewell well remember your mom at the piano. She was always happy and helpful. Shortly before my mom died, we ran into Norma and Bill at Kroger in Conway. They chatted for an hour. That's what friends do...they can pick up a conversation where they left off even if months have passed.
Phyllis Wheeler
Wednesday, May 25, 2022
I remember Norma from New Hopewell. In fact, her Mom was my Sunday School teacher. May the Holy Spirit comfort and give strength to her family.
Cheryl Fraser
Wednesday, May 25, 2022
Val, sending prayers for continued peace and rest for you and your family.
Tammy Connell Mills
Tuesday, May 24, 2022
I’m so sorry for your loss. May the precious memories always bring comfort. Prayers lifted for you all.
Patsy Leslie
Tuesday, May 24, 2022
Bill and Valerie,
I am so sad about Norma's passing but I know she is in a better place now. She was a good friend as well as a lot of fun when we worked together at the UCA Library several years ago. Please know my prayers are with you all.
Carolyn Baker
Tuesday, May 24, 2022
I thought the world of Norma. I remember when she came to work at the library. She was so helpful and always willing to do what was needed. She was a sweet lady with a wonderful smile.
penny Rose
Tuesday, May 24, 2022
Praying for you Valerie, Bill and Kelly.
Norma was such a sweet woman.
Bob Barham
Tuesday, May 24, 2022
My deepest sympathy in the loss of Mrs. Norma. I pray that you find peace in knowing that she no longer suffering from that horrible disease of dementia. I know that I am thankful that my mom is healed now, just like your mom. God Bless you all.
Pam White Dunavant
Tuesday, May 24, 2022
Valerie, I 'm so sorry to hear of the passing of your precious Mom. Praying God's peace and comfort for you.
Gaye Dallas Knight
Tuesday, May 24, 2022
So sorry Valerie, but we know where she is and is healed of all things earthly. Love you and thinking of you and your family.
Mark and Gayle Mullenax
Tuesday, May 24, 2022
Dear family, we are so sorry to hear of your loss. Lil Ms Norma was special! And man could she bake a fresh apple cake! Prayers for you all!
Clara Quattlebaum
Monday, May 23, 2022
Valorie,so sorry to hear about your Mother. You are all in my prayers.
Mary-Catherine Flanagin Glover
Monday, May 23, 2022
I’m so sorry! Keeping each of you in my thoughts and prayers!â¤ï¸
Carla Kelley
Monday, May 23, 2022
Uncle Bill, Valorie & Kelley, so sorry for your loss….will be praying and sending love. Aunt Norma is in a much better place. We Love yall…ðŸ™â¤ï¸
James and Linda Boardman
Monday, May 23, 2022
Great people and the best neighbors.
Jim and Linda
Rex & Debby Saddler
Monday, May 23, 2022
We knew Mrs. Kelley for lots of years. Her and her husband Bill were a great couple and both are great examples of how to be dedicated to your spouse. I don't think I ever saw one of them without the other along. They supported each other greatly. To her daughter Valerie, whom Norma was so proud of, we are sorry for your loss. May the Lord now bless Bill and all the Kelley family and may Mrs. Kelley rest in peace.