Norma Jean Speights

1935 - 2018

Norma Jean Speights

Brandon, MS - Norma Jean Speights passed away into the loving arms of the Lord Jesus Christ, on May 15, 2018 at home surrounded by her loving children. She was born in Walthall County, MS, on November 21, 1935.

She is survived by her children; Debra Jackson (Burt) James " Randy " Speights (Arlene); Rhonda Smith (Joe) ; Michael Speights (Michele) ; Lisa Barthel (Eric); eleven grandchildren; four great grandchildren; and a sister MS Jo Lynn Davidson.

She is preceded in death by her husband James Lowry Speights, and her parents Ola Otho and Hillman Elizabeth Magee.

Norma worked at the Daycare at Alta Woods Baptist Church for over 18 years. Following the death of her husband in October of 1996, she relocated to Brandon. She joined First Baptist Church and continued caring for children at the church's daycare center for twenty-three years until the age of 78. Norma loved reading, gardening, and antiquing.

After being diagnosed with cancer twenty years ago, she showed strength, courage, and tremendous faith while enduring multiple surgeries and numerous treatments. She loved to attend church, Sunday School and Choir. One of her favorite verses of scripture that provided her motivation to endure her battle with cancer is II Corinthians 12:8-10.

She cherished making memories with her children, grandchildren, and her pet dog "Pepper" of 14 years. She was always up for a good "road trip" especially if it involved visiting family, antiquing, visiting Amish communities, Band competitions, or ballgames, especially football.

Although she lost her dad when she was a young child, he left a lasting impression upon her life and she always cherished fond memories of growing up in Walthall County with her mother, her father, and her sister "Jo Lynn".

Visitation will be on Wednesday, May 23, 2018 at Ott & Lee funeral home in Brandon from 5 to 7 pm. Funeral Services will be held on Thursday, May 24, 2018 at First Baptist Church 309 South College Street in Brandon at 11:00 AM following visitation at 9:00 AM. Burial will be at Oakvale Baptist Church cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials, may be given to First Baptist Church of Brandon's mission fund or daycare center, or Talking Book Services at the MS Library Association. The family wishes to express a special thanks to the many people who provided her with love and care.