Jesse Howard Norman Jr.

He had bravely fought several physical conditions the last two years until his body had no more fight left in it.

Jesse was born September 15, 1943, in Texarkana, Texas to Jesse H. Norman, Sr. and Isabell O' Farrell. A few years later, his mother married M.O. Starnes, who was the true father figure in Jess's life. He graduated from Midland High School in 1962. Shortly after graduation, Jesse joined the United States Army and proudly served active duty and reserves between 1965 and 1971. When he returned he began his career with Southwestern Bell Telephone/AT&T which spanned over 37 years. Jesse was an exemplary employee, He passed this excellent work ethic onto his children

In the fall of 1968, Jesse met Brenda Rives at the apartments where they both lived. Jesse called her "a bubble gummer" because she was still a teenager (19) when they met. They were married in April 1969 and settled down in Odessa, Tx. They had two children, Stefanie and Tommy, who both reside in Frisco, Texas with their families.

Jesse's happy place was the family property in Brownwood. He loved the outdoors, especially hunting and fishing. He believed in doing things right the first time, and that everything had a place, and should be put back in that place. He was basically a perfectionist. Jesse loved his grandchildren. Pop gave them nicknames - Ilisa was Sweet Pea, Brendan was Buddy, and Bella was Sugar Pie.

He is preceded in death by his parents and brother, Gary Starnes; sister-in-law, Sharol Villines, and brother-in-law, Harvey Heiser.

Jesse is survived by his wife of 55 years, Brenda; daughter, Stefanie (Greg) Curlee; son, Tommy (Elizabeth) Norman; grandchildren, Ilisa, Brendan, and Bella; sister-in-law, Dana Starnes; sister-in-law Judy Heiser Agee (Dick), brother-in-law Ronnie Villines, along with other extended family and friends

A private graveside service with military honors for Jesse will be held on Saturday, October 19, 2024, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Sunset Memorial Gardens, 6801 E 1-20 Business Loop, Odessa, Texas 79762.