of Little Rock, AR

February 18, 1934 - January 7, 2026

Norma Jean Lawhon McMullan, age 91, went into the arms of Jesus, her Savior, on January 7, 2026. She was born on February 18, 1934, in Houston, Texas. Norma was preceded in death by the love of her life, her husband of 62 years, David Thomas ''Tom'' McMullan; her parents, Ernest Lawhon of Houston, Georgia Countryman Bean and stepfather Carroll E. Bean of Kaufman, Texas; and her sister, Ernestine Bostick of Canton, Texas.

Norma is survived by her children, Michael Wayne McMullan (Jeri) and Sheri McMullan Swindler (Bryce); her grandchildren, Amanda McMullan Hargrove, Stephen McMullan (Katy), Kirstin Swindler Johnson (Glen), Whitney Swindler Bell (Daniel), and Marla Swindler Dowdy (Jefferson); and her fourteen great-grandchildren: Reese, Riley, and Barnes Hargrove; Max, Bennet, and Alex McMullan; Amelia, Afton, and Finn Johnson; Hudson and Harper Bell; and Evelyn, Arden, and Morgan Dowdy. She is also survived by a host of loving nieces and nephews, and her lifelong best friend, Linda Bell.

Norma was a faithful member of Calvary Baptist Church in Little Rock for fourteen years, where she sang in the church choir and taught preschool choir. She later became a long-time member of First Baptist Church of Little Rock, where she worshiped for more than forty years. There, she continued her love of music through the choir, taught preschool choir, and graciously co-hosted numerous church events. She especially loved participating in The Living Christmas Tree and the many dinner theater productions put on by church members. Norma and Tom were richly blessed with a devoted and enduring circle of friends throughout their lives.

Norma loved people well. She had a keen eye for beauty and detail, and she used those gifts to create a welcoming, elegant home where family and friends were always lovingly entertained. Family was everything to her. She hosted countless holidays, birthdays, and family dinners, preparing memorable meals; most famously her beloved orange rolls. She was an avid bridge player throughout her life and cherished her ''bridge ladies.'' Other joys included tennis, singing, working as an Estée Lauder consultant, and modeling. Norma was truly a class act, never leaving home without the perfect outfit, impeccably styled from head to toe.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to her caregiver, Laura Joseph, whose loving devotion and gentle care greatly enhanced Norma's final months.

A celebration of life service will be held on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at First Baptist Church of Little Rock, 62 Pleasant Valley Drive, with visitation immediately following.

 

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