Norma Jean Ford Bearden

She was born October 31, 1934 in Birmingham, Alabama, and was the only child of John Carter (JC) and Ola Mae Ford.

Norma Jean was preceded in death by her husband of many years, Doug Bearden, and her parents, JC and Ola Mae Ford. She is survived by her cousins Andy (April) Belew, Diane Belew and Connie (Mike) Edwards, Roland (Jean) Belew, Jada Edwards, Paula (Daren) Bosarge, Dennis Belew, Andrea (Brett) Bailey, Michelle Kent, Marianna Kent, Victor Kent, and a host of other cousins and family members who absolutely adored her. She was a loving “other mother” to all of her cousins, and all of her family - as well as many friends who will dearly miss her.

She worked at Dewberry Engraving in Birmingham for many years, and later was a full-time wife and homemaker. She enjoyed dancing, playing piano, cooking, Alabama football, volunteering for the Salvation Army, Elvis Presley’s music and mostly, spending lots of time with her family.

Norma Jean was a beautiful, strong, determined, feisty and very funny woman. She was always quick with a smile and a joke, and always showed that she cared for others. You never left her presence without feeling loved, important, and just a little bit happier. She was always in charge.

Norma Jean was exceptionally devoted to her family and friends. She never let them forget a birthday for anyone, and always made sure there was a celebration for each one. She never missed a holiday. She spent every day making sure her family and friends knew they were loved, and she was a true testament to grace, elegance, integrity and character. She took loving care of her parents in their later years. She often made trips to help care for her aunt and uncle, Virginia “Toots” and Clarence Belew.

We will all miss her every single day. We all know, however, that heavens is a little brighter today, and that she is with all of her family members who were there waiting for her. We also know that NO ONE in heaven will EVER forget to take out the garbage! 😊

Her Celebration of Life Service will be held at Elmwood Chapel, 800 Dennison Avenue SW in Birmingham, AL on Saturday May 25, 2024 at 2:00 PM.