Norma Jeanne Alexander's Obituary
On the morning of July 28, 2019 Norma Jeanne Cranfill Alexander Our “Ninny,” escaped the bonds of this world and went on to glory for eternity with Our Heavenly Father, His Son Jesus Christ and all His Saints.
Norma Jeanne Alexander was born to James Gibson (Jim) and Erah Estelle (“Big Ninny”) Alexander, February 16, 1936, Whiteface, Texas. The Alexanders later moved to Henderson, Texas where Norma Jeanne spent her formative years. The Alexander family lost their father Jim while Norma was quite young. She took pride in her siblings, James, Jackie, Weldon, and Iris growing close and helping their mom Erah in raising the three youngest children. The “Great Depression” loomed large during that time only to be followed by the uncertainties and fear brought-on by World War II. As family, friends, neighbors and countless countrymen left their homes headed for uncertain fate, these were the times, she admitted, that shaped her in faith, personal character and motherly virtues the most.
She married on September 5, 1953, to Paul Carlton Kelley Cranfill, a young sailor in the U.S. Navy, a farmer’s son, originally from Guntersville, Alabama. It is not enough to say that Norma was the quintessential Navy Wife and Mother; and often reflected on her love of family and the responsibilities of motherhood as the most important occupation.
She loved music especially country-western and gospel music; and was an avid fan of both College and Major League Baseball; especially the “Longhorns” and her beloved “Cubs!” notwithstanding the lifestyle and attitudes found in a house-full of Texas Aggies! The best thing of all is that Norma Jeanne knew how to love on youngsters and encourage them as their coach in the game of girls’ softball, which she grew to love enormously, and as a mentor in life’s journey for so many also.
In 1978, following 25 years of U.S. Navy service, Paul and Norma relocated to the Republic of the Philippines for employment. Upon return to the United States in 1982, Norma continued to own and manage a day care business started years before that would total about 30 years and touched so many families and their babies with her unconditional love. She was always the mom, or example of what a mom should be, for so many in need; and her legacy stretches across the globe now. Well Done good and faithful servant! Rest in Peace Yellow Rose.
Norma Jeanne Alexander has 6 children, numerous grandchildren, numerous great-grandchildren.
Angela and Patrick Connally
Travis and Jaime Connally
-Abigail Samantha and Asher
Lauren and Walt Grigsby
-Connor and Dagne Grigsby
Luke and Mary Connally
-Charlie, Harry and Austin Connally
Daniel and Brook Connally
-Ryland Sawyer and Wesley
Sarah and Jake Linebarger
Philip Cranfill
Paula McGuire
Chantille and Berto Diaz
-Sylvana Diaz
Ryan Cranfill
Paula and Michael Anderson
Angela and Tommy Parks
Michael and Zoe Anderson
-Hunter and Scarlett Anderson
Brenda and Esy Khastehdel
Kristopher and Bridget Khastehdel
-Mckinsey Paul and Bryce Khastehdel
Adam and Ashley Khastehdel
-Adley, Edym, Maysen and Laryn Khastehdel
Alex Khastehdel
Pamela and Michael Glendenning
Nathan and Megan Khani
Mariam and Christopher Ruiz
-Lando Yazzie
Joseph Glendenning
Jenny Cranfill
-Andrew Miller
Thomas and Brit Miller
-Eisley Jeanne Miller
Elizabeth and Jeff Edmondson
Rachel and Vidur Moudgil
What’s your fondest memory of Norma?
What’s a lesson you learned from Norma?
Share a story where Norma's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Norma you’ll never forget.
How did Norma make you smile?

