Norma Jean Russell

Norma Jean Russell, 68, passed away peacefully at her home in Kansas City, Kansas, on Friday, December 27, 2024. Born on March 14, 1956, in Beatrice, Nebraska, to Lester and Ruby Russell, she was a devoted daughter, sister, aunt, and friend who will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Norma was preceded in death by her parents, Lester and Ruby Russell, and her sister, Maxine Rivera. She is survived by her four nieces and one nephew: Michelle Rivera, Ruth Kelley and husband Edward Kelley, Karmel Perron and husband Joseph Perron, Jahnel McClain and husband Patrick McClain, and her nephew David Rivera and wife Ashley Rivera. Norma is also survived by three great-nephews and one great-niece: Jaden Kelley, Devan Kelley and wife Yareli Kelley, Josiah Perron, and Chloe Salaices and husband Ethan Salaices. Norma grew up on the Russell family farm in Summerfield, Kansas, alongside her parents and sister. A lifelong member of the Presbyterian Church in Summerfield, Norma carried her faith with her throughout her life. Her favorite scripture, Philippians 4:13 — “For all things I have the strength through the one who gives me power” — was a guiding light for her, and she kept it close to her heart always. A passionate advocate for education and hard work, Norma earned her degree from Kansas University and devoted much of her professional life to the KU Medical Center, where she worked until her retirement. She was deeply committed to her career, where she touched many lives with her dedication, professionalism, and kindness. Norma’s legacy will live on through her family, who remember her as a loving, strong, and resilient woman. Her impact on those around her, both in her family and in her professional life, is immeasurable. She will be remembered not only for her work ethic but for her deep faith, her caring spirit, and her unwavering support of those she loved. Memorial Services will be held at the Summerfield Community Center Saturday February 1,2025 at 11:00 a.m (211 Main Street, Summerfield, KS 66541). She will rest at Mission Creek Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Kansas University Medical Center Foundation in honor of Norma’s memory.

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Norma Jean Russell

March 14, 1956 - December 27, 2024