Norma Gayle Littlefield

She is survived by her son, Jayden Bryant Hampton Smith; brother, Alan Littlefield; half-sister, Cindy Lear and the love of her life, Jon Thomas.

She was preceded in death by her parents Norman and Marsha Littlefield.

She graduated from Bradenton Christian School in 1992 and was a licensed practical nurse in the state of Florida.

Gayle was known throughout Manatee County simply as “Littlefield” from the time she was a little girl.

She was a loving mother to her son, Jayden, and served as a PTO officer for his elementary school. She was always the first to volunteer for all school activities. She was always committed to his education, making sure it was as well-rounded as possible, often traveling to other parts of the world to give him a new perspective.

Gayle was a licensed practical nurse by trade. She put those skills to use as a dedicated care-giver to her father for over 10 years. She was currently employed as a nurse with Gulfside Hospice.

She was a wonderful friend to many people, always welcoming others into her home. She enjoyed cooking for them, especially her mother’s famous pound cake. She loved fall and every year she hosted her annual “Pumpkin Carving Party” where friends and family all gathered for food, fellowship, and fall festivities.

She accepted a large variety of pets and animals into her home for the purpose of educating Jayden and entertaining herself and her friends. In particular, she became very skilled at raising chickens and laying hens. She was an expert in the science of backyard chicken farming, including creating the Florida Chicken Expo to help other backyard farmers manage their flocks. Her expertise was published both in print and online. Her dedication for raising healthy chickens that produced exceptional eggs was her passion.

In her later years, she took up silversmithing as a hobby. She enjoyed many hours with her jewelry craft and making gifts for her friends.

Gayle loved to travel and took many trips over the years with friends and family. Some of her favorites were cruises to Alaska and the Caribbean. She left part of her heart in the highlands of Guatemala on the shores of Lake Atitlan where she worked regularly and tirelessly to support children in the fight against chronic malnutrition and create sustainable, dignified work for women.

Receiving of friends will be at Groover’s Mansion Memorial in Ellenton, FL on Friday, April 15 from 3:00-6:00 pm, with a celebration service starting at 6:00 pm.

“We are confident, yes, well pleased rather to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord.” II Corinthians 5:8