Norma Irene Powers Smith

Norma Irene Powers Smith, age 88, of Biloxi, passed away on Wednesday, October 31, 2012 in Biloxi.
Norma was born December 15, 1923, in Urbana, Illinois, to Olive and George H. Powers. She attended the University of Illinois until the outbreak of WWII and then worked at Chanute Air Field. At a church picnic, she met her future husband, Richard S. Smith. In 1944, they were married on her parent's 24th wedding anniversary, February 22nd.
In 1947, Norma sailed with an infant and toddler to meet Richard in Post-War Japan. Through their many assignments with the Army Air Corps and USAF, they met many wonderful friends, most of whom Norma outlived. The postal carrier was amazed at the hundreds of cards they sent out and received each Christmas.
She was secretary many years at their church, J.T. Leggett Memorial United Memorial Church, Biloxi. She also served in numerous other capacities: Sunday School teacher, President of the United Methodist Women, and as a member of Pastor Parish Relations, Administrative Board, Board of Trustees, Worship Committee, and Cradle Roll Monitor. She was State Treasurer for the United Methodist Women.
Norma had a sharp wit and an active mind and enjoyed her daily newspaper, watching sporting events, and helping others. As a former poll worker, was looking forward to voting for President. She was a charter member of the Bay Vista Garden Club and was active in the Officers' Wives Club.
Norma and Richard raised five children. She was active in PTA from 1950 until 1983.
She was predeceased by her husband of 52 years, Major Richard S. Smith, USAF Ret.; a son, Richard S. Smith, Jr.; her parents, Olive and George Powers; a sister, Lucille Wilson; a grandson, Nathaniel T. Shaeffer, and a great-grandson, Carl R. Smith.
She is survived by four daughters: Nancy A. Smith (Chris Kennedy), High Point, N.C., Juanita S. Mullins (Eddie), Biloxi, Diane E. Shaeffer (Bob), Cordova, TN, and Kathleen J. Smith, Biloxi; a brother, George Richard Powers (Charlie Jo), Fort Worth, TX; four grandchildren: Richard J. Smith (Patty), Jennifer D. Mullins, Roland E. Mullins, III, and Amanda G. Shaeffer, and one great-grandchild, Alex Smith. She is also bereaved by her son's widow, Joena Smith Ivey, East Lansing, MI.
Visitation will be held from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. on Sunday, November 4, 2012 at RIEMANN FAMILY FUNERAL HOME, Biloxi, and on Monday, November 5 from 10:00 a.m. until 10:45 a.m. The procession will then depart the funeral home for the Graveside Service, at 11:00 a.m. at Biloxi National Cemetery.
A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, December 15, 2012 at J.T. Leggett Memorial United Methodist Church in Biloxi.