Norma E. Neely, 92, passed away peacefully Saturday, March 1, 2025, in the Morgantown Healthcare Center in Morgantown.
Born March 10, 1932, in Core, to the late Earl and Bessie Hawkins Neely, she was a beacon of gentleness and loving kindness to all who knew her.
Norma graduated from Clay-Battelle High School and soon thereafter began a lifelong career that demonstrated her dedication and hard work. She worked for many years at the Arkwright General Store Mining Consolidated Coal Company and retired as a cherished secretary from the Fairmont Supply Company.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Norma was profoundly devoted to her family, especially in caring for her elderly parents in their home.
Her unwavering faith as a member of the Dolls Run Christian Church was evident in her everyday life. Norma found great joy when her preacher, Jerry Teter, visited her for prayer and fellowship. Her commitment to her church community further shined through her service as the secretary and treasurer of the Christian Women’s Fellowship.
Norma was also an active participant in the local community, being a respected member of the Community Builder’s and Phythian Sisters HOPE No. 71 in Fairmont, and a former member of the Phythian Sisters Monongalia No. 18 at Core.
One of Norma’s most cherished pastimes was tending to her magnificent flower and vegetable gardens. Just like her mother before her, Norma developed a profound love for cooking, and those who had the chance to taste her dishes experienced the warmth of her spirit.
Norma was a beloved sister to Wayne Neely of Laurel Point, and Ruth Kramer of Cincinnati, Ohio, whom she leaves behind along with many adoring nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her sisters, Naomi Moore, Dorothy Cutlip and Elizabeth Speicher; and her brother, Lynn Neely.
Norma will be fondly remembered by her family and friends as a woman of benevolence and gentleness. Her kind and loving nature touched many lives, and the legacy of her soft-spoken, nurturing soul will continue to resonate with those fortunate enough to have felt it.
Friends and family may gather in McCulla Funeral Home from 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, March 5, and again from 10 until the 11 a.m. funeral service Thursday, March 6, with Pastor Pat Donnelly officiating. Following the service, Norma will be laid to rest at Beverly Hills Cemetery.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.McCulla.com
