Norma Jean Thomas

Norma Jean Thomas, 91, of Rockford IL. Went to her eternal home 11:30 p.m. on Monday January, 29th 2024 surrounded by her family. Born on June 20, 1932 to Orval Daugherty and Floy White Daugherty, Hopedale, IL.

Graduated high school from Hopedale High. Then went on to attain her nursing degree from Mennonite Hospital in Bloomington, IL. Married Clifford Ivan Thomas of Hopedale, IL in St. Louis Missouri on July 25th, 1956.

Her testimony lived in her work outside of her home as an RN at Highland Hospital, offices of Doctor Thomas Michalsen, and Doctor Steven DiSanti. Volunteering over 20 years at OSF Saint Anthony Hospital and Cancer Center.

Norma and Cliff shared the beauty of nature with their children and friends. Camping, boating, and fishing across the United States. Settling on the perfect retirement cabin on a hill overlooking a beautiful lake in Minnesota.

Norma is and always will be an example of how to live, love, and to be a mother. Her rock and her hope, our lord Jesus Christ.

Church and years of weekly bible study with dear friends and acquaintances beyond number, kept her steadfast in her faith.

Norma and Cliff enjoyed many sporting events but not quite as much as watching Brent wrestle. Although, Norma was known to peek at him from the hall with fervent anticipation.

Her precious extended family knows well her love for them was and remains boundless.

Survived by brother, Rayburn Daugherty (Evelyn); children, Brenda Battista (Joe), Brent Thomas (Debbie), Sandra Davis (Steve), Patricia Avery (Ross); grandchildren, Micheal Battista (Patricia), Celeste Battista (Charlie), Noel Battista, Torrie Thomas, Taylor Thomas, Taryn Thomas, Tessa Thomas, Bryce Davis (Ashlea), Benjamin Avery, Noah Avery (Alaina), Ezra Avery, Lydia Avery; great grandchildren, Joseph Battista, Eden Battista, and Riverlee Davis. She is predeceased by her husband Cliff, sister Dorene Martin, and brother Vernon Daugherty. 

A Life well lived, a good and faithful servant.

Our mourning has turned to dancing.

“Jesus, can you please tell Grandma Thomas to have a fun weekend in Heaven with her mom? I love you. I’ll miss you. But don’t worry. I’ll see you again someday.”

~ Joey, age 4.