Norma Masters

GULFPORT, Miss. -- Norma Jean Masters, 86, of Gulfport passed away peacefully in her home, surrounded by her loving family Monday, Aug. 23, 2021.

She was born July 26, 1935, in McClure, Illinois, to John Lowell and Corean Waterman Johnson.

After graduating from Shawnee High School in Wolf Lake, Illinois, she married her childhood sweetheart, Bob Masters. She became a proud Air Force wife for 20 years and was a loving mother to three children.

Norma was employed as a nursing assistant in the 1970s and 1980s in several medical facilities. She retired from the Gulfport VA in 1985 as a psychiatric nursing assistant. She received several outstanding performance awards throughout her nursing career.

After retiring, she enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren. She and her husband enjoyed bowling in leagues over the years. She also loved to garden and work in her yard.

Norma was a member of Grace Chapel Church in Gulfport and loved singing in the church choir.

Survivors include her daughter, Toni R. Deakle of Gulfport; four grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews; and close friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Robert D. Masters; and two sons, Robert Masters Jr. and Michael Masters.

Visitation will be from 10 to 11 a.m. Monday at Ford and Sons Sprigg Street Funeral Home in Cape Girardeau.

Graveside service will be at 11:30 a.m. Monday at Lindsey Cemetery in McClure with the Rev. Darris Kaufman officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to the Alzheimer's Association, P.O. Box 456, Ridgeland, MS 39158.

The family would like to extend its deepest appreciation to Southerncare Hospice for its care and dedication during Norma's illness. Also, a thank you to Grace Chapel Church family for its prayers.

Online condolences may be made at www.fordandsonsfuneralhome.com.