Norma Jean (Oglesby) Franklin

Norma J. Oglesby Franklin, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and devoted woman of faith, passed peacefully from this world into her Heavenly home on October 30, 2026, at the age of 92. Born on June 2, 1934, Norma was the tenth and youngest child of William Austin Oglesby and Junie Ethel Ridge Oglesby. She was born and raised on the Arkansas side of Line Road, which separates Arkansas and Oklahoma, where she grew up on the family farm alongside her nine siblings. 

Norma often shared stories of her childhood, including the days when she and her brothers would walk two and a half miles to and from school. As she grew older, she loved retelling those memories to her grandchildren, who would sometimes playfully roll their eyes at the stories they had heard so many times before. Little did they know, those stories would become treasured pieces of family history, lovingly passed down from one generation to the next. 

Norma graduated from Foreman High School in 1952 and later attended Draughon's Business College in Dallas, Texas. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Colonel Bobby G. Franklin of the United States Air Force; her parents; her nine brothers and sisters; and her four children, Charles, Robert, Deborah, and Scott. She is survived by her loving son, Clay Franklin, and his wife, Patricia; her cherished eight grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren, all of whom carry a piece of her love and legacy. 

Norma was an original member of Balboa Baptist Church, and her Christian faith remained a guiding light throughout her life. She was a devoted Christian mother and grandmother whose heart was filled with love for the Lord, her family, and the many friends she made along the way. She found joy in life's simple pleasures, especially gardening, spending time with her family, and playing golf. Among her proudest accomplishments was making the first hole-in-one at Diamante Golf Course, a special memory that became part of her remarkable story. 

Above all else, Norma treasured her family. She loved each of them deeply and found great happiness in sharing her stories, wisdom, and unwavering faith. Her life was a beautiful reflection of the love she carried in her heart and the importance she placed on those closest to her. 

One of Norma's final messages to her family was the scripture John 3:16, a lasting testament to the faith she carried throughout her 92 years. She wanted her family to know just how deeply she loved and appreciated each of them. She also shared her belief that her own mother's prayers had helped guide her toward the gates of Heaven. Though she will be deeply missed, her family finds comfort in knowing that the faith she lived by has now become the promise she rests in. Norma leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and cherished memories. 

Her stories will continue to be told, her lessons will continue to be remembered, and the love she gave so freely will live on in the hearts of her family for generations to come. "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son..." — John 3:16 Services will be held on Monday, November 16, 2026, at Balboa Baptist Church. Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., followed by a memorial service at 11:00 a.m.

Arrangements by Arkansas Cremation, 2 Innwood Circle, Little Rock, Arkansas, 72211. You may leave a message of condolence to the family using the Guestbook section.

www.arkansascremation.com