Obituaries

Jerry W. Norman (POP)

Photo of Jerry W. Norman (POP)
Jerry W. Norman (POP), 78, of Sherwood, passed away Tuesday, April 10, 2018. Jerry was born in Gurdon, November 4, 1939, and reared in Bluff City. He is was preceded in death by his parents, Novice and Haskell Norman. Also, preceding him in death were all of his siblings: JoAnn, James, Bill, Jay Roy and Roger. Jerry was a Navy Veteran and worked for USPS for 34 years as a letter carrier. He was a fierce and dedicated advocate for the rights of letter carriers and served as Union Steward for many years at the Downtown Little Rock Post Office. With his quick wit and a voice that could be heard above the crowd, everyone knew where he stood. His knowledge of carriers' rights and responsibilities won him a great deal of respect over the years, even though he never quite mastered the art of political correctness. He remained a lifelong member of NALC (National Association of Letter Carriers Branch 35). Jerry reminisced often of growing up in Bluff City. Even though times were extremely tough on a single mom raising six children, he found joy in the simple life and the characters he remembered growing up. He never tired of (and could get lost in) watching old Westerns that included his hero John Wayne. Having no children of his own, he loved being referred to as Pop, Dad or Daddy by the children he loved and helped raise. Always fair and always there if needed, he was immensely proud of the children and grandchildren he referred to as his own. He leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife of 30 years, Esther; son, Sharif Hassan; daughter, Samia Johnston (Tim); and grandchildren, Sophia and Jacob Johnston. He also held a special place in his heart for daughter, Jennifer Cochran (Caleb); and granddaughter, Caitlynn of Southaven, Miss. (from a previous marriage). In addition, he leaves behind a special sister-in-law, Billie Norman of McKenzie, Tenn.; along with many nieces and nephews. A special thanks to UAMS and Dr. Matthew Steliga for his dedicated and compassionate care. The family would also like to thank all who kept us in their thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. As our grandson so eloquently said – "God needs a Pop." Rest in Peace my love. Visitation will be, 5-7 p.m., Thursday, April 12, 2018 at Roller-Owens Funeral Home, 5509 John F. Kennedy Blvd, North Little Rock, AR 72116. Chapel services will follow from 7-8 PM. Private interment will be at Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery at a later date. Memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, Tenn. 38105. Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/owens.

Published April 11, 2018

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