Norma Jean Smith

“Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her: ‘Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all.’”

Proverbs 31:28-29

Norma Jean Smith, 82 of South Vienna, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on August 25, 2025. She was born August 11, 1943 in Grundy, Virginia, the daughter of the late Vernie and Martha (Young) Brown. Norma is survived by her best friend and loving husband of 61 years, Wayne Smith; children Martha (Bruce) George and Jamie (Karen) Smith; grandchildren, Jessica (Richard) Wait, Lauren (Dalton) Murray, Seth George, Caleb Smith, and Kendall Smith; great-grandchildren, Quincy, Croix, Beau, Gemma, and Leo; brothers, James Brown and Michael (Brenda) Brown; a special sister-in-law, Ada Horn; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and siblings, Curtis Brown and Loyd Lee Brown.

Norma flourished in her role as the matriarch of her family, embracing her loved ones with open arms, the sweetest smile,and a heart brimming with pride. She treasured her family beyond measure, finding immense joy in their milestones and achievements, never missing the opportunity to support them and cheer them on. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, in particular, held a special place in her heart, as they were the very embodiment of her love and legacy. Norma’s grandchildren were greatly blessed to spend much time under her wing, where she of course doted on them, but more importantly tirelessly imparted invaluable lessons about God's goodness with her wise and joyous spirit. This legacy will undoubtedly live on through the generations. Norma’s greatest accomplishment was her adoring family, and her love knew no bounds.

For 20 years, she also dedicated herself to her career at Ohio Edison, where her unwavering commitment and work ethic earned her respect and admiration from colleagues. Beyond her professional life, she extended her compassion and care by working in nursing home ministry services, spending time in her garden, and sewing. Norma was a lifelong learner: she was passionate about nurturing creativity and continually growing in knowledge.

Norma was a blessing to everyone with whom she crossed paths. The fruits of the Spirit were evident in every way she interacted with the world around her. She truly lived out Jesus’s commandment to love others as He loved us.

Norma's family would like to express their gratitude to Robin and Delila of Live Loved Homecare for their ministry toward Norma and her family during this time.

Family and friends will be received on Saturday, August 30, 2025 from 10:00-11:30 AM at the Jackson Lytle and Lewis Life Celebration Center, Springfield. The service will begin at 11:30 AM, officiated by Richard Smith and Mike Baldwin. Burial to follow at Vernon Asbury Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family would love to receive a card or letter of your favorite Norma memory. Online condolences may be expressed to the family by visiting www.jacksonlytle.com.