Norma Esbenshade

Norma Newton Esbenshade, 97, was called to her heavenly home on March 18, 2023. Norma was born in Lempster, New Hampshire, on June 22, 1925, to Freeman George Newton and Gladys Bartlett as the youngest of 4 children. Always wanting an adventurous life, she left N.H and became an airline hostess for PanAm to see the world. PanAm suited her dreams of travel and satisfied her curiosity about other cultures, religions and lifestyles. Having an outgoing personality, she was perfectly suited for constant travel and certainly "never met a stranger."

It was while flying she met and married PanAm pilot John Merle Esbenshade in 1950. Together they traveled and lived on several continents, including Australia and Europe, before returning to the U.S in 1975. After experiencing so much that the world had to offer, they came to Waynesville to retire.

Norma had many passions, especially animals (wild and domestic) and would love to feed them and watch as they gathered around her back door. Her favorite was her cats and would love to talk at length with anyone who shared her love of God's creatures. Gardening, crossword puzzles, reading, her church and neighborhood friends were of great importance and meaningful to her. Norma's religion was her anchor and strength at all times and has now brought her eternal peace. She would often remind those around her that she "has a good working relationship with the Lord."

Norma is preceded in death by her husband, John Merle Esbenshade, parents Freeman and Maude Newton, sister Irene Martha Veaudry, brother Gordon B. Newton, and infant brother Murray. She is survived by nephews Kenneth Newton (Waynesville), and Gordon F. Newton (Louisville, Kentucky).

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the local SPCA (Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) or any animal welfare agency.

At Ms. Esbenshade's request, there will be no funeral ceremony.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.garrettfuneralsandcremations.com for the family.