Norma Jean Varner, 81, of Keokuk, IA, died Tuesday, September 5, 2017 at the Unity Point-Keokuk Hospital. She was born on August 4, 1936 in Keokuk, the daughter of William and Myrtle Stephenson Varner. She graduated from Keokuk High School with the Class of 1956. She attended Truman State and received her Bachelor's Degree in Education. Norma had been a teacher in the Keokuk School District for over 40 years and retired in 1997. She attended the Evangelical Free Church in Keokuk and loved her church family. She was a member of the Retired Teacher's Group and enjoyed their get-togethers. Norma loved going to auctions and finding stuff to add to her many collections. She was very compassionate and made it her mission to take care of all who needed her, including pets in need. She often visited nursing homes and brightened the resident's day with her kindness. Norma was always willing to give her advice, solicited or not. She is survived by her brother, Richard Varner of Keokuk, her sister, Helen Thorn of Keokuk, many, many nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews. She was preceded in death by three brothers, Charles "Jack" Varner, Earl "Pete" Varner and John Varner, three sisters, Cora Varner, Marie Brown and Lucille Watson and her lifelong best friend, Charles Collins. Funeral services were held at 10 a.m. Saturday, September 9, 2017 at the Evangelical Free Church in Keokuk with Pastor Jack Klous officiating. Burial was in the Hickory Grove Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Keokuk Animal Services or Church for Children at Grace UMC, c/o Corey Nelson, 900 Denmark St., Louisville, Kentucky 40215