Norma Jean Owsley

July 6, 1937 - March 7, 2021

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Norma Jean Owsley was born July 6, 1937 in Lewiston, Idaho and died peacefully March 7, 2021 at home after saying goodbye to her sister, children, grandchildren and many friends.

Her parents were Alma and Delford Jolstead, and they named her after the movie star Norma Shearer. Her father died when she was 8 years old, and as a result she spent many happy summers with her sister Doris at their grandparent’s farm in Ritzville, Washington. An elementary teacher introduced her to books and her brilliant mind never lost the love of reading.

After graduating from Walla Walla High School in 1955 our true scholar received a full scholarship to Whitman College in Walla Walla, where she was a member of Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority.

She married Richard (Dick) Owsley and the young family moved to Port Townsend in 1962. When her children were all in school she began a long and engaging working career as the office manager for Thomas Oil company, while continuously volunteering in many civic organizations and attending school activities. She was a member of George Welch Orthopedic Auxiliary, volunteered for the March of Dimes, Habitat for Humanity, and many, many Rhody Runs, beginning in its infancy. From 1987-1993 she served as an elected Port Townsend City Council member. Her entire life she was a fierce bridge player; “No guts, no glory!” she would say, and in later years loved to play Bingo.

She is survived by her sister Doris Berry; daughter Daniece (Bill) Burns; sons Steve and Tom (Mary); and grandchildren Kelsey (James) Shields, McKay Owsley, and Joe and Madison Burns. She was predeceased by her husband Richard in 2017 after 61 years of marriage.

We will be celebrating our dear mom at a time to be determined in the fall when we can celebrate with less restrictions. Also interment in Ritzville, Washington. “The End!” “Seven No Trump!” “Bingo!”