Norma Jean Folk

Her long and loving life was a testament to resilience, grace, and a deep devotion to family.

Norma was born on May 18, 1929, at her family’s home near Buford, Arkansas, to Ethel and Loren McRae. Her childhood was full of close-knit family values and simple joys. One of five children, she was preceded in death by her siblings Mildred, Aileen, Darrell, and Maxine.

Norma graduated from North High School in Wichita in 1947 and went on to build a career in finance, eventually working for the City of Scottsdale, Arizona. In 1966, Norma married James Folk, the love of her life. Together they raised their family and shared a deep bond that carried them through more than 50 years of marriage until James’s passing on June 20, 2017. Their retirement years were spent in the mountaintop serenity of Pinetop, Arizona, where they created years of treasured memories together.

More than anything, Norma was the heart of her family—a steady, loving presence who was always in their corner. She was a dedicated mother to three daughters: Linda, Marilyn, and Susan. She was also blessed with a bonus son, Jim, whom she loved as her own. She experienced both deep joy and profound sorrow, having been preceded in death by her daughters Linda and Susan and husband James Folk.

Norma found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She was an avid crafter and loved to sew, always creating with care and creativity. Camping trips with family were among her favorite adventures. She had a sharp mind and a love of games, keeping her wits sharp with sudoku and mah jong on her iPad well into her 90s—until her eyesight no longer allowed it.

She is survived by her loving daughter Marilyn (Dean) Schroer and son Jim (Tina) Folk, ten grandchildren, and a growing legacy of great and great-great-grandchildren. Her family was her greatest pride, and her love for them was limitless. She also leaves behind her cherished dog, Taco, who brought her daily joy and companionship.

A life as beautifully lived as Norma Jean Folk’s deserves to be beautifully remembered. As we celebrate Norma, we will carry forward her legacy by choosing to be the things we loved most about her. Norma gave us an unwavering example of what it looks like to live and to end well. She will be deeply missed and forever loved.

A private memorial service will be held.