Norma Rae Tolley

Norma Rae Tolley, 85, passed away peacefully in Lindon, Utah surrounded by family on January 17, 2017.

Norma was born on December 5, 1931, to Edward Ray Howlett and Velma Smith Howlett in Draper, Utah. She was the oldest of 3 children. She had a younger sister, Nelda and a younger brother, Delmar. Her father was killed in a mining accident when she was 9 years old. Norma's mother later married William Tunbridge. They became the parents of 2 daughters, Terry and Nadine.

Norma enjoyed growing up in Draper on Relation Street where every child was a sibling or cousin. After her mother remarried, they moved to Nephi, which became her beloved lifelong home. She met Robert LaMar Tolley who lived a block away. They were married on June 9, 1950, in the Salt Lake City Temple. Bob and Norma made their home in the little house on main street next to Bob's grandparents' home.

This young newlywed woman felt a great responsibility to keep her home clean and tidy. She enjoyed her calling to be a mother and homemaker. Norma had her mother's talent with needle and thread; embroidering, crocheting, and making wonderful dresses for her daughter and for herself.

Norma loved working outdoors on her yard, keeping it as beautiful and well-tended as the house. For many years, she was the accompanist for Relief Society. She practiced almost every day. The last few years were a struggle with Bob passing and her body failing. She did her best right up to the very end. She left a legacy of beauty brought about by work and love.

Norma is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Bob; sweet baby son, Robert Ray and recently her son, David N. Tolley.

Norma is survived by her daughter, Debra Tolley Schneider and son Dale N. Tolley; as well as many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

A viewing will be held Monday, 23 January 2017 at Nephi Stake Center, 351 N. 100 W. at 10:30 am followed by the funeral service at noon. Interment will be at the Vine Bluffs Cemetery in Nephi, UT.