Norma Hope Rooks

Norma Hope (Bornstein) Rooks, 91, a long-time resident of the North Shore, passed away peacefully on February 26th at Brooksby Village, surrounded by her loving family. Norma lived a life filled with meaning driven by her optimism, caring for others, and love for her family, friends, and community.

Norma was the daughter of Harold and Rose (Rosenberg) Bornstein. Her childhood was spent in Salem and Swampscott where she made friends easily and remained close with several of them for more than 70 years. An only child for 11 years, she was joined by her brother, Neal, whom she cared for and adored. After graduating from Swampscott High School in 1952, she went to Simmons College graduating with a degree in Psychology. She married Joseph L. Rooks, a best friend from high school, and moved to Danvers to start and raise their family. Over the next 40 years, Norma lived and worked in Danvers. In addition to being a full-time mother, she was active in community activities as the first president of the Danvers Chapter of the League of Women Voters, a Danvers town meeting member for many years, and long-time member of the Board of Trustees for Danvers Savings Bank. In her 40s, she received her Master of Education and was one of the first professionals hired as a school psychologist in the newly formed Department of Special Education in the Danvers Public Schools. Norma was a champion for both students and parents and believed strongly in giving every child the opportunity to learn and succeed in school. She enjoyed her work for more than 20 years. A longtime member of Temple Shalom in Salem, Norma was one of the leaders that navigated its closing and subsequent integration.

Norma was devoted to her family: son Daniel and daughter-in-law Betsy of Marblehead and their children Josh and Rebecca, daughter Beth of Santa Fe, NM and sons Jesse and Noah, and son Peter and daughter-in-law Ruth of Andover and children Sam, Drew, and Annie. She loved spending time all together, with each family, and one-on-one with grandchildren. Norma organized family trips that established a pattern of family connection that grew stronger over time.

Norma lost her beloved husband, Joe, at age 48. In addition, she was predeceased by her brother Dr. Neal Bornstein of Lakeville.

Norma was a devoted and beloved daughter, sister, wife, mother, “Nana”, cousin, and friend. She will be remembered for her kindness, caring, positive approach to life, and internal moral compass.

The family wants to extend its deepest gratitude to Grace, Marie, Cheryl, and the other staff at Maple Grove for the years of care and love they provided. A special thank you to Debbie, Julie, Cindy, and the staff of Care Dimensions who took care of all of us at the end.

A private burial service will be followed by a Celebration of Life on Sunday March 1st at 403 Brooksby Village Drive (Braeburn Building) in Peabody, MA from 12:00 – 3:00.

Contributions in her memory may be made to Care Dimensions (75 Sylvan Street, Suite B-102, Danvers, 01923) or a charity of your choice.