Norma Jean Diebold

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Norma Jean Diebold on August 7, 2024. 

Norma Jean was a woman of immense faith and strength. Her departure leaves behind a legacy of unwavering love, courage, and a spirit that inspired all who knew her.

Standing small in stature but mighty in spirit, Norma was known for her sweet singing voice that brought joy to her family and church community. Her faithfulness to God and her family was a guiding light throughout her life, providing comfort and inspiration in times of need to many through her lifetime of works with community groups, food banks, and church outreach programs. 

She is survived by her loving husband, Wayne Diebold with whom she shared 54 years of marriage. She was also the devoted mother of three children, Marty Watson of Philadelphia, PA, Patty (Rex) Watson of Cabot, AR, and Wayne (Jenifer) Diebold of Texarkana, TX. Her love for them was boundless, and her memory will forever be a source of strength and comfort. She cherished her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who affectionately called her Nana Jean. Her love for her family was the cornerstone of her life, and her memory will forever be a source of strength and comfort. 

Norma Jean lived her life with courage and resilience, embodying the virtues of faith, hope, and love, with an unshakeable devotion to God and her family. Though she is no longer with us, her spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of those who were blessed to know her.

Norma is survived by her husband, Wayne; her sister, Alice Gaines of North Carolina; her children, Marty, Patty, and Wayne; grandchildren, CJ Thornberry, Chris (Liz) Thornberry, Sarah (Lev) Kalman, Eric (Ericka) Diebold and Kade (Jeremy) Byars; and three great-grandchildren, Blakely Diebold Barton, and Cash and Crews Thornberry; eight bonus grandchildren; 16 bonus great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, and close friends. She is preceded in death by her parents, Leslie Cox and Bethie Lee Hall; Her brothers, Ozell, Buddy, Ed, Raymond, Alan, Sammy, and Terry; her sisters, Dorthy, Hazel, and Patty.

The viewing/visitation will be held on Tuesday, August 13th at 2:00 pm at Smith Benton Funeral Home, 322 N. Market St. Benton, AR 72015. The funeral service will follow at 3:00 pm.

May she rest in eternal peace, surrounded by the love and light of the Lord she served so faithfully.

Arrangements entrusted to Smith Benton Funeral Home.