Fort Worth resident Mary Jo Poplin dies at 96, leaving a multi-generational legacy

Mary Jo Poplin, a longtime resident of the Fort Worth area, died on October 23, 2026, at the age of 96. Her passing leaves behind a legacy defined by her love for family, her infectious laughter, and her deep connection to five generations of relatives.

Born on January 11, 1930, to Edgar Olan Norman and Marie Salles Norman, Poplin grew up in North Fort Worth. Her family’s presence in the city dates back to its earliest days, establishing strong local roots that remained central to her identity. She completed her education at Our Lady of Victory Academy, graduating in 1948.

Throughout her life, Poplin remained a devoted Catholic. She found particular comfort and strength in her faith, with a special devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary. In her younger years, she was known by the nickname Tee, a moniker that accompanied a reputation for humor, a feisty spirit, and a willingness to speak her mind.

Her professional and personal life was dedicated to raising her family and serving in various administrative roles. Poplin was also known for her diverse interests, which included reading, volunteering at the library, and cheering on the Dallas Cowboys. As a breast cancer survivor, she faced life’s challenges with notable strength and determination.

Poplin was preceded in death by her husband, Frank Poplin, and her former husband, William G. Fleetwood. She was also survived by her parents, Edgar Olan Norman and Marie Salles Norman, as well as her siblings Alice Perullo, Sharon Napper, and John Norman. Her son Michael Fleetwood and grandson Christopher Fleetwood also passed before her.

She is survived by a large and extended family. This includes her daughter Nancy Hart of North Richland Hills and her son David Fleetwood of Ponder. Her grandchildren include Brent Burkheimer of Saginaw, Susan Burkheimer, Nicole Fleetwood of Amarillo, David Fleetwood Jr. of Tuscaloosa, Alabama, and Michael Fleetwood Jr. of Hagerstown, Maryland.

The family extends to several great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren across the United States. Notable among them are Sydney Benton of Fort Worth, Alda Costa of San Marcos, and Nicu Costa of Amarillo. Other great-grandchildren reside in locations such as Arlington, Virginia, Missoula, Montana, and Norwood, Pennsylvania.

Poplin is also survived by her sister Bonnie Kenney, as well as several nieces including Jennifer Palmer, Patricia Schmidt, Katherine Ottmers, and Regina Manian. Her family noted that she is now reunited with those who went before her, including her beloved dog, Ladybird.

A Rosary Service and Funeral Service are scheduled for Thursday, October 29, 2026, at Mount Olivet Chapel. The Rosary Service will begin at 2:00 p.m., followed by the Funeral Service at 2:30 p.m. Interment will take place at Mount Olivet Cemetery.

The funeral arrangements are being handled by Greenwood Funeral Homes, located at 2301 N. Sylvania Avenue in Fort Worth. The family invites friends and relatives to join them in honoring the life of Mary Jo Poplin.