Rev. Norman A. Arp

Rev. Norman A. Arp, of Vonore, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loved ones on Thursday, February 26, 2026. He was 92.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Faye; great grandson, Brody; parents, Alfred and Elizabeth Arp; as well as brothers and sisters: Bert Arp, Harvey Arp, M.B. Arp, Jack Arp, Anna Mae Shirk, Janie Murr and Alma Strickland.

He is survived by his children; Curina (Rick) Kirkland and Marshall Arp; his grandchildren, Shawn (Samantha) Kirkland, Rachel (Mike) Priest, and Shayla (Brad) Russell, Tregg (Samantha) Kirkland; his great-grandchildren, Logan, Hannah, Logan, Dawson, Luke, Jackson, John Michael, Kinsley, Konnor, Kyra, and Karlee; one sister, Betty Tipton.

Norman served our country proudly in the United States Army. He loved our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. A faithful servant, he ministered for 56 years. He was the oldest surviving member of Mt Zion Baptist Church (Vonore). Norman loved his wife and his family, but above all else he loved Jesus and it was always his goal to lead people to Him.

On behalf of Norman, the family would like to thank Rev. Steven Strickland and Rev. Andy Franklin. "Keep hammering on the rock boys." The family would also like to thank Dr. David Rankin who cared for Norman and Faye for 38 years as their doctor, spiritual counselor, and most of all, a friend. We would also like to thank Nurse Toni Loveday for always being there for the family.

Rev. Arp will lie-in-state for the public to pay their respects at Biereley-Hale Funeral Home, Madisonville on Saturday, February 28th from 11 a.m. until 12 p.m. The graveside service and interment will follow at 12:30 p.m. at Big Toqua Cemetery. Rev. Steven Strickland and Rev. Andy Franklin will officiate. Military honors will be provided by V.F.W. Goldstar Post 5156 and American Legion Post 106.

Memorial donations may be made to Big Toqua Cemetery, C/O Roger Underwood, 121 Lackey Lane, Vonore, TN 37885.