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Norman Dale Connelly of Bay Minette, AL, passed away on June 29, 2026 at the age of 86 peacefully at his home surrounded by love. He was born on December 27, 1939, in Coleman, TX. Although he made Alabama his home, he always kept Texas in his heart.
He retired from the United States Army after proudly serving all over the world, including Vietnam. He then began his second career and retired from Transocean Offshore as a Rig Safety Training Coordinator.
Norman was also a devoted member of the Masonic fraternity, where he was actively involved for many years and formed lasting friendships through his service and fellowship.
He shared 44 loving years of marriage with his wife, Barbara Sue Connelly. He is survived by his wife; his children, Kim Walker of Springfield, MO, Rusty Turner (Karen) of Elberta, AL, Barbara Anne Turner of Bay Minette, AL, and Norma Jean Tanner (Owen) of Tanner Williams, AL; his sister, Lois Johnson of Seminole, Tx; his brother, Larry Connelly (Polly) of Sinton, Tx; 13 grandchildren; and 16 great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews, each of whom held a special place in his heart.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Truman Connelly; his sister, Joyce Poe; and his daughters, Sonya Kozer and Cindy Holesapple, granddaughter, Katie Leigh Knox.
Norman will be remembered for his unwavering love for his family, his faithful service to his country, his commitment to his community, and the example of strength, integrity, and kindness. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew and loved him.
Funeral services will be held Wednesday, July 8, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. at the chapel of Norris Funeral Home with Chaplain Joe Stevens and Reverend Larry Connelly officiating. Burial will follow at Pine Grove Cemetery.
The family will receive friends Tuesday, July 7, 2026 from 6:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. at Norris Funeral Home.
Pallbearers will be Darrell Mosely, Dustin Boyington, Patrick Gibbons, Justin Gibbons, Robert “Jakie” Lowery, Chad Johnson, Scotty Vinson and Tyler Joe Vinson. Honorary pallbearers will be James Reed, Wesley Clark, John Watson, James Godwin, Nicholas Orosco and Ray Davidson.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff of Southern Care Hospice for the exceptional care and kindness they provided during his final days. We also want to send special love and gratitude to his team, Kim McLaughlin, Chassity Brown, Judy McWilliams, Mary White, Tracy Milstid, and Brother Joe Andrews.
They are especially grateful to Barbara Welch, whose love, care, compassion, and unwavering support brought comfort not only to him but also to his family.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Norman Dale Connelly, please visit our floral store.