Joe Kelly Norris

Joe Kelly Norris, age 84, a resident of Green Forest, Arkansas, passed on to his heavenly home, Sunday, March 5, 2023.

He was born October 8, 1938, the last of 7 children born at their home in Green Forest. He was the son of Lee and Edna (Barnhill) Norris. 

On April 3, 2008, Joe eloped with Lena Norman to Reno, Nevada where they tied the knot. They enjoyed years of traveling, tending to his goldfish pond, going to pipeliner’s reunions, and keeping in touch with fellow pipeliners. He loved spending time in his shop working on his projects. He was most proud of receiving his 50th year union member pin with the “International Union of Operating Engineers.” He was known to his many grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren as Papa Joe. He also talked about how he hoped to live long enough to see President Trump reelected.

Joe is survived by his wife Lena of the home, 1 daughter, Cynthia Bollinger of Rogers, AR, 3 sisters, Barbara Goins of Dardanelle, AR, Lucy Monger of Mountain Home, AR, and Beverly Kilbourn of Green Forest.

He is preceded in death by his first wife, Mary Ann Norris, son Robert Norris and Daughter Teresa Norris.

Celebration of Life service for Joe Kelly will be Friday, March 10, 2023, at 11:00 AM at Smith Family Funeral Home in Green Forest with Pastor Mark Bryant officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service from 10-11 AM. Interment will follow at Glenwood Cemetery in Green Forest. Online condolence can be made at smithfamilyfuneralhome.net.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in honor of Joe to the re-election campaign for President Trump at donaldjtrump.com. 

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