Norma Jo Lackey was born May 14, 1935 in Melvern, Kansas to Harry A. and Harriet A. (Normandin) Lackey.  She passed away October 23, 2021 on the family farm where she grew up.

Early in life, Norma attended the local country grade school where she was quite popular as she would give pony rides to the other kids at recess since she rode her horse to school.  Norma then attended Waverly grade school and although she didn't know it at the time, this is also where she would meet her future husband, Edward.  Their relationship started back in 6 ^th grade when Norma felt the need to hit Ed over the head with one of her books.

Norma attended Waverly High School where she was part of the Glee club and enjoyed hanging out with friends.  This was also where she first asked Edward to the Sadie Hawkins spring dance when they were both juniors.  Norma and Edward were married two years later and their young love turned into 66 years of a beautiful marriage and 5 wonderful children.

Norma and Edward enjoyed seeing all different parts of the country as Edward served in the United States Air Force for 20 years.  They especially enjoyed Puerto Rico where they were stationed for 3 years.  Norma loved taking the family of four kids to the beach and spending time in the beautiful outdoors.

When Ed retired from the Air Force they returned back to Waverly with their four teenagers and baby Shawn.   They lived in town for 25 years and then moved to the farm outside of town where Norma grew up.  Ed and Norma could frequently be found at Waverly football, basketball, or volleyball games, even after their children had graduated.  They also found time to make it to the grandkids many sporting events over the years.

Her faith was a very important part of her life and guided her in raising her family with Edward.  Knowing Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior gave her and us assurance that she is in heaven now.

Norma enjoyed being in the choir at the United Methodist Church.  She had a love for all things musical and had an amazing voice.  You couldn't spend time with Norma without hearing her singing or humming a beautiful tune.  She loved hymns and could be found singing in school and church choirs, and also solos at church and weddings.   She also spent countless hours being a part of the square dancing club with Ed.  The grandkids especially enjoyed this hobby as they loved the dresses grandma would wear to dance in.

Norma loved being around family which included 13 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren.  Her smile would light up a room and make everyone feel welcome.  She was well known for her cooking skills and the family looked forward to her meals.  Norma always made sure everyone had their favorite foods at family gatherings.   Thanksgiving at the farm was always a great time especially when we would try and fit the whole family into one picture.

While battling Alzheimer's over the last 13 years, Norma was always cheerful and smiling.  She loved to sing or hum to music and was a pro at playing her favorite game on her iPad.  Norma was well cared for by her faithful husband and was able to remain on their farm until she passed away.

She is preceded in death by a daughter, Diana Green, and a sister, Phyllis Cummings.

She is survived by her husband, Edward, of the home; children, Kathy (Jim) Love, Manhattan, KS, Stanley (Elizabeth) Turner, Amprior, ON, Linda (Vince) Deems, Austin, TX, and Shawn (Stephanie) Turner, Overland Park, KS; 13 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren; other relatives and friends.

Memorial services will be held at 10:30 A.M. Saturday, November 6, 2021 at the United Methodist Church in Waverly.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Waverly United Methodist Church and may be sent in care of Jones Funeral Home, P.O. Box 277, Burlington, KS 66839.