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Norma Jean Bates passed away peacefully on January 10, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. Born into a large family, she was the oldest child, sharing a unique and cherished bond with her 10 brothers and sisters. After graduating high school with the class of 1963 in Boley, OK, Norma courageously joined the United States Air Force, where she began a journey of service to her country. She was an Air Force Veteran who served with honor during the Vietnam War. Norma was not only a dedicated and courageous service member but also a loving parent, grandmother and amazing older sister. Her dedication to duty and commitment to excellence were evident throughout her military and government career, reflecting the same qualities that endeared her to family and friends. Norma's life was characterized by resilience, duty, and a commitment to both her country and her family. She dedicated her life to creating a warm and loving home for her family. Her kindness, generosity, and unwavering support touched the lives of everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. In addition to her being a dedicated veteran, Norma was the proud mother of one daughter, Letanya, who she raised with unwavering love and support. She cherished their time together, creating countless precious memories. Outside of her military service and career in the government, Norma had a passion for reading. Whether immersed in a gripping novel or exploring the pages of history, she found solace and joy in the world of literature. Norma's love for books was not only a personal joy but also a gift she shared with her daughter and those fortunate enough to know her. Her warm smile, kindness, generosity and dedication to those she loved will forever be remembered. Norma was preceded in death by her parents, Bessie Smith & Robert Hunt; two sisters, Doris Wiles & Olevia Woodfork, one brother, Charles Johnson & her beloved grandson, Devron Kennedy. She leaves to cherish her memory, her only child, Letanya (Toni) White (Pete), her grandchildren, Cameron (Cassie) Kennedy, Kellin (Breanna) and Ceara, great-grandchildren Amara and Lilith; her sisters, Linda Ricks, Sylvia Calip, Jewel Hicks, Betty Logan, Helen Lawson, Kathy Willis, Patricia Willis and Sandra Johnson; her brothers, Larry Johnson, Dwight Willis & OC Willis, Jr., a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends. A funeral service will be held at 11:00AM, Saturday, January 20, 2024 at Slay Memorial Chapel in Aubrey, TX. On-line condolences may be shared: www.slaymemorialfuneralhome.com Services are under the direction of Brad R. Shotts and Slay Memorial Funeral Center, Aubrey.

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Norma Jean Bates

April 17, 1945 - January 10, 2024