Norma Jean Leslie was born on February 6, 1942, in Marvell, Arkansas, and passed away on January 16, 2026. A devoted Catholic, Norma found comfort and strength in her faith. She made reading her Bible a daily habit, and her faith remained a steady source of peace throughout her life.
Norma found joy in the simple things, especially a good game of BINGO, which she loved sharing with friends and family. She was, above all, a loving wife, mother, mother-in-law, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Her family meant everything to her, and she poured her heart into caring for and supporting them. The love she gave so freely will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.
She is survived by her four children: Elton Stanley Leslie and his wife, Stacy; David Leslie; Randy Leslie and his wife, Theresa; and Pam Butts and her husband, Dennis. Norma was a proud grandmother to nine grandchildren: Geoffrey, Alex, Andy, Charla, Samantha, Dusty, Joshua, Rusty, and Stephen; and a loving great-grandmother to six great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister, Stella Ambrose; her brothers: Bobby Cavette and his wife, Linda and her brother, James Cavette; along with many extended family members and friends who loved her dearly.
Norma was preceded in death by her husband, Elton Leslie; grandchildren: Amanda Doughit and Jonathan Leslie; her parents, James and Helen Louise (Lawrence) Cavette; and her brother, Billy Cavette.
Visitation will be held on January 19, 2026, from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m., followed by a funeral service at 1:00 p.m. at Smith Family Funeral Home in Benton, Arkansas. Burial will follow at Fairplay Cemetery in Benton with her family, David Leslie, Randy Leslie, Dennis Butts, Steven Butts, Dusty Leslie, and Rusty Leslie assisting as pallbearers.
Norma Jean Leslie will be remembered for her faith, her kindness, and the deep love she had for her family. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
322 N Market Street, Benton, AR 72015

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