Norene Angela Hylton

Norene would not want that. Instead, I ask you to help me celebrate the life of Mrs. Norene Angela Hylton Nee Williams —affectionately known as Pea, Willy, and Upper Church—and to say our goodbyes in the best way we know how.

If you knew Norene, you knew that she was a woman of few words—but when she spoke, those words could pierce your soul.

Born on Tuesday, December 11th, 1956, in the cool hills of Lowe River, Trelawny, Jamaica, Norene was the 12th of 13 children to her beloved parents, Mr. and Mrs. Burnell Williams.

In a household that large, being the 12th child came with a bit of pampering—especially with a four-year gap between her and the last-born. For a time, she carried the title of “wash belly” in the family.

She attended Lowe River All-Age School in Trelawny. Norene was so bright that, after just one day in the first grade, her teacher moved her to the second grade on day two. It was the first of many moments that reminded us of her brilliance. She remained an excellent reader throughout her life.

In the mid-1970s, she welcomed her beloved daughter, Taneica Wint, followed by her first son, Sheldon Wint, and finally her “wash belly” son, Jessie Hylton, alongside his father, Mr. Hylton, her husband.

Norene was a proud grandmother to Calvin, JR, Zardon, and Jaxon, and a mother-in-law to Cutris.

In the mid-1990s, she migrated to the United States with her three children, first settling in New Jersey, then relocating to Florida. There, she continued her education, earning her CNA license, and worked in the field of healthcare until her passing.

Raised in the Presbyterian church, Norene later joined the Church of God of Prophecy after moving to Kingston. Her faith deepened over the years. While living in New Jersey, she gave her life to the Lord, was baptized, and became a member of Faith Temple. Upon relocating to Florida, she rejoined the Church of God of Prophecy, where she remained an active and faithful member.

She loved her church—and the church family atmosphere. Perhaps growing up in a large family made it all the more comforting to her. It’s no wonder she was lovingly called “Upper Church.”

As we say goodbye today, I know Norene enjoyed her life. And if she were here, I’d like to think she’d want us to focus on the good feelings she gave each of us—the warmth, the wisdom, and the strength that will never be forgotten.

Norene, may you rest in peace.

Your legacy lives on in the lives you've touched and the love you've left behind.

A visitation for Norene will be held Saturday, July 26, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Royal Palm Funeral Home, 5601 GREENWOOD AVE, WEST PALM BEACH, FL 33407. A celebration of life will occur Saturday, July 26, 2025 from 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM, 5601 GREENWOOD AVE, WEST PALM BEACH, FL 33407. A committal service will occur Saturday, July 26, 2025 from 12:45 PM to 1:00 PM at Royal Palm Memorial Gardens, Greenwood Ave, West Palm Beach, FL 33407.