Norma Lewis: ‘Matriarch of the family and loved by everyone who knew her’

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Norma Sue Lewis passed away peacefully on the morning of August 31st surrounded by her family. She is now reunited with her departed husband and life-long soulmate Nathan “Nate” Lewis, whom she missed every day since his passing in 2010. Upon his passing, they had been married for 57 years.

The matriarch of the family and loved by everyone who knew her, Norma was born in Texas and lived a full life in California surrounded by her family. Norma was a hardworking wife and homemaker who raised nine children whilst supporting her husband in his logging career. Nate and Norma were married in 1954. They each brought two children to the marriage and then welcomed five more together over the years. She managed a hair salon in Garberville for many years where she made many good friends while also participating in the upbringing of her grandchildren. After her grandchildren were born, they started calling her “Momo”, a name that stuck and one which she would be known by many. Norma’s biggest accomplishment was her large family that she created with Nate.

Norma is preceded in death by her husband Nathan Lewis Sr, brothers Ray and Joe Bishop, sons Rolland and Raymond, granddaughter Tammy, and a great-grandbaby.

She is survived in life by her daughters Linda, Susan, Sibyl, Diane, and Joyce; sons Nathan Jr and Norman; sister Vera Madsen; twenty-three grandchildren, forty-nine great-grandchildren, and nineteen great-great-grandchildren.

Momo’s greatest times were spent with her family up on the hill. Nothing made her happier than a house and yard full of kids and family.

Upon her request, there will be no services observed. The family would like to thank the staff at St. Joseph’s Hospital, Jerald Phelps Assisted Living Facility, and Redwood Memorial Hospital.

Written with love by Kasey Detrick and Charity Marcelli, with contributions by Missy Gallaway.