1941-2024
Oscar Norris Culpepper Jr. of Sheridan, Arkansas, peacefully passed away on Thursday, November 7, 2024, at Jefferson Regional Medical Center in Pine Bluff, at the age of 81. Born on March 15, 1943, in California, Norris was the beloved son of the late Oscar Culpepper Sr. and Alice (Graves) Culpepper Lovelace Skipworth. He carried forward the legacy of his family with pride and an enduring dedication to his faith, family, and country.
A lifelong man of faith, Norris attended Meadowview Baptist Church, where he found spiritual strength and community. His career in the railroad industry was marked by hard work, loyalty, and the strong work ethic he brought to every endeavor. In addition to his career, Norris proudly served his country as a member of the National Guard, embodying the values of service and commitment throughout his life.
Beyond work and duty, Norris had a deep love for the outdoors. An avid hunter and fisherman, he cherished the peaceful moments he spent in nature, whether it was a quiet morning on the lake or hunting with family and friends. To those who knew him, Norris was a man who spoke through his actions more than his words, sharing his warmth and wisdom quietly but profoundly., someone who truly appreciated life’s simple pleasures.
Norris’s greatest source of happiness, however, was his family. As a devoted husband to his late wife, Norma Culpepper, with whom he shared 53 cherished years, he exemplified love and loyalty. His pride in being a father, grandfather, and great-grandfather was evident to all who knew him, and he created countless treasured memories with his family. Norris’s love and wisdom will remain with them, inspiring generations to come.
Norris is survived by his sons, Norris Alan Culpepper and Bryan Thomas Culpepper, both of Sheridan; his grandchildren, Colbi Culpepper, Brittany Culpepper, Madison Besterfeldt, and Dylan Boal; and his adored great-grandchildren, Jaxon Thompson, Derek, and Daxon Boal. He is also survived by his sister, Diane Vance, along with many loving nieces, nephews, extended family members, and a wide circle of dear friends who will miss him greatly.
In addition to his parents, Norris was preceded in death by his brothers, Denver Culpepper and J.C. Culpepper, as well as his beloved wife, Norma.
A visitation will be held on Tuesday, November 12, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. at Memorial Gardens Funeral Home in Sheridan. A graveside service will follow at 11:00 a.m. at Lost Creek Cemetery, where family and friends will gather to celebrate his life, remember his legacy, and bid him a loving farewell.
Norris’s family extends their deepest gratitude to all who have offered their support and condolences during this time. His life was a testament to love, strength, and kindness—a legacy that will endure in the hearts of all who knew him.
