Norma C. Ralston

Norma Catherine Billington Grissom Ralston was born in Springfield, IL on April 16, 1937, the first child of Catherine Cecelia (Barten) and Norman Wayne Billington. She passed into her eternal life at 2:50 a.m. on Monday, April 25, 2016 at St. John's Hospital in the loving presence of her son. Norma married Samuel B. Grissom in 1959 and he preceded her in death. Norma married Robert Ralston and he preceded her in death. She is survived by her son, Jeff (wife, Leandra) Grissom and the three true loves of her life, her grandsons, Chase (fiance, Alyssa Devaney) and Cooper, and her granddaughter, Tyler, all of North Carolina. Norma is also survived by her brothers, Tom BIllington and Jack (wife, Sue Ellen) Billington and her favorite niece, Leah Billington, all of Springfield. A graduate of Holy Cross Grade School and Champaign High School, Norma attended University of Illinois before beginning her career with Illinois Bell. Norma retired from AT&T in 1989 after serving with Illinois Bell, Southern Bell, American Bell and AT&T for 32 years in Illinois, Florida and New Jersey, where she served as Director of Special Projects and Publications. Norma enjoyed maintaining her telephone friendships via membership in The Telephone Pioneers for 28 years. Norma loved music from Broadway and The Big Bands to Elvis Presley and she loved the theater from New York (CATS and ANNIE) to The Muni Opera and The Theater Guild in Springfield. All who knew her cherished her classic presentation in a long standing role as Anne Rutledge in "The Life of Abraham Lincoln" on the stage of The Kelso Hollow Theater at New Salem State Park. Norma brought joy to multitudes of Muni patrons both as cast and crew and Ticket Master, and, to the delight of all, as the ever loyal Director of The Senior Citizens Bus Service. Norma understood and appreciated what life in this world was designed to be and she found her mission in doing all that she could to help others. Norma was aptly honored as "Volunteer of the Year" for truly extraordinary service to The Make A Wish Foundation, St. John's Hospital, The American Cancer Society, The Muni Opera of Springfield, The Theater Guild of Springfield, The Festival of Trees, The PGA at The Doral Blue Monster and numerous other worthy causes in Illinois, Florida, and New Jersey. Norma thoroughly enjoyed the time she spent working at The Lincoln Souvenir & Gift Shop with her very special friends. On April 13, 2016 Norma was officially and forever declared "GOOD AS GOLD" when she was presented "The Heart of Gold Award for dedication, service, and the promotion of Senior Services in Central Illinois' Mission and Goals." Sincere thanks and heartfelt appreciation go out to Dr. Lonnie Laughlin and Dr. Kari Jerge and to the truly dedicated and caring nurses and staff in ICU, the 8th floor and to her very special angels on the 11th floor of St. John's Hospital for all they did for Norma in such a gracious manner. May "The Lilac" forever bloom just a short bike ride from her home as a fitting tribute to the friendships and peace and comfort Norma was able to experience during The Final Chapter of her life here on earth. Memories are "Gifts from God" that death cannot destroy. Salute that truth, from time to time, as your schedule will permit. Fondly reflect on the joy you shared with Norma and all you learned when she passed your way. Then, follow in her footsteps. Never grow weary of doing good. Be courageous and find eternal significance in reaching out to help folks who really need a friend. Cremation was accorded by Butler Cremation Tribute Center prior to ceremonies. Memorial Ceremony and Gathering: A memorial ceremony will be held at 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday, April 27, 2016 at Kirlin-Egan & Butler Funeral Home, with John Standard officiating. A memorial gathering will follow until 7:00 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to the donor's choice.