Norma Wilson Stewart

Norma Wilson Stewart, 91, of Hot Springs, Arkansas, passed away peacefully in her sleep on February

11, 2024. Norma was born on August 7, 1932, in Bradford, Arkansas, to the late Paul and Nellie Siler. She

was the beloved wife of the late James (Jim) Wilson of Stuttgart, Arkansas and the late Clifford Stewart

of Hot Springs, Arkansas.

Norma was a vibrant and active woman who loved life and sports. She excelled in and had a passion for

tennis, bowling, basketball, and various other sports. Norma's skills as a tournament bridge player

earned her the distinguished title of Life Master at an early age. She also enjoyed traveling and spending

time with her family. Norma's unwavering support for the Razorbacks made her a devoted fan for

decades. Additionally, Norma had a deep passion for education and mentored numerous young

students.

Norma is survived by her loving children, J Stephen Wilson, DDS, and his wife Kim of Hot Springs,

Arkansas, and Melinda Hopson and her husband Joey of Roe, Arkansas. She was a proud grandmother to

Claire Zimmerman of Dallas, Texas, Shaw Wilson of Fayetteville, Arkansas, Madeline Gill of Roe,

Arkansas, and Hannah Hopson of New York City, NY. Norma is also survived by her sister, Bernadine

Wells of Nashville, Illinois.

Norma's educational journey was marked by remarkable achievements. She was the valedictorian of

Bradford High School and went on to earn an Industrial Engineering degree from Oklahoma State

University. She further pursued her academic aspirations in obtaining a Masters Degree in mathematics

from the University of Arkansas. After college she worked for the Corps of Engineers in Washington, DC

as a map maker. She later worked for Convair Aircraft in Fort Worth, Texas pursuing work in

aeronautical engineering helping design the new delta wing B-58. Her marriage to James S Wilson

brought her to the Stuttgart area where they helped build and start the Stuttgart Shoe Corporation. Fate

steered Norma into becoming the head math teacher at Stuttgart High School for hundreds of students

over her decades long career teaching trigonometry, algebra, geometry, and calculus. She was in the

forefront of early computer programming instruction and computer science. Norma readied scores of

students for their college endeavors.

Norma was a member of Hot Springs Baptist Church, where she found solace and strength in her faith.

In her leisure time late in life, Norma enjoyed playing competitive bridge whether in person or online

and spending time with friends and family.

Norma Wilson Stewart will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of

knowing her. Her remarkable spirit, love for life, and dedication to her loved ones will forever be

cherished.

A memorial service will be held at 10:30am, Monday, March 11, at Hot Springs Baptist Church to honor

Norma's life and legacy. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to be made in Norma's

memory to the Hot Springs Baptist Church or a charity of your choice.