Norma N. Sutphen's Obituary
Norma N. Sutphen, age 86, passed away early Wednesday, August 11, 2021. She was born on February 16, 1935 to Russell and Norine Thompson in Kansas City, MO. Early in life, Norma made her way to Michigan and has lived here ever since. She attended Baker College where she received her degree in nursing. She worked for numerous years as a licensed practical nurse (LPN) in various nursing homes in the area. She was a faithful servant of her Lord and Savior and was a member of Queen Esther Missionary Baptist Church. Norma had a passion for painting and enjoyed creating many masterpieces portraying scenery. In her senior years, she made a commitment to being a foster grandparent and it truly made her the happiest she had ever been. She was inspired by a dear friend, Carol Hart to participate in being a foster grandmother and she was involved in the program for over 16 years. She also was a mentor in the Peace Room, which was a program that nurtured younger children at Orchard View School. Norma loved being able to spend time with the children, whether it was helping them or watching as they blossomed. Norma was an inspiration to many and will be missed by all who knew her. She is survived by her 4 children, Nancy Mandt Clar, Terry (David) Davies, Judy (Tom) Vadnais, and Scott (Leia) Strong; 11 grandchildren, Darrick “Harley” Mandt, Paige Dolphin, Hether Daugherty, Hope Davies, Rusty Strong, Kevin Strong, Dezare Strong, Raelynn Strong, Tyler Strong, Joe Strong and Ronne Duemnel; dear friend, Ophelia Chilton and best friend, Barb Plouhar. She was preceded in death by her parents, 2 sons, Russell Strong and Forest Strong; sister, Peggy Jean; and husband, Paul Sutphen. A Memorial Gathering will be held on Monday, August 16, 2021 from 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM at The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Service, 6291 S. Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444. A Memorial Service will be held at a later date at Queen Esther Missionary Baptist Church, 2220 Superior St., Muskegon Heights, MI 49444. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Norma’s honor can be made directly to the Catholic Charities of West Michigan (Foster Grandparents Program), 1720 Park St., Muskegon, MI 49441. The family would like to thank both Carol Hart and Beth Ackley for introducing Norma to a way of life that allowed her to achieve true happiness in her senior years of life. Share memories with the family at www.sytsemafh.com.
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