Carol M. Norton

Born on June 24, 1942, and raised in Dover, New Jersey, Carol was a 1960 graduate of Dover High School, where she was known for her kind and generous spirit. She carried those qualities throughout her life, creating a warm and loving home in Long Valley, New Jersey, for her first husband and their two sons.

After the loss of her first husband, Carol showed remarkable strength and resilience as she raised her sons on her own, carrying forward with quiet courage and unwavering love. Later, she joined Parents Without Partners, where she met her loving husband, Joseph G. Norton. They were married on May 14, 1988, and eventually moved to Palm Coast, Florida, where they built a wonderful life together, enjoying warmer days and beloved companionship.

Carol was a gifted artist and homemaker whose creativity flourished during her years in New Jersey while raising her sons and building a life with her husband Joe. She had a passion for ceramics and once owned a shop in Chester, New Jersey, where she practiced and taught others her craft. Over time, her creativity found new expression in working with paper. While living in Blairstown, she hosted gatherings of friends for stamping parties, where laughter, friendship, and creativity filled her home. In later years, she became known for her handmade cards, thoughtfully sent for birthdays and special occasions—never missing an opportunity to make someone feel remembered. Her card-making continued for the rest of her life.

Carol especially loved the holidays, finding great joy in hosting and creating a warm, festive environment where family and friends felt welcomed and valued.

Her compassion extended beyond her home as she served as a hospice caregiver, offering comfort to others during life’s most difficult moments. She also volunteered for many years at a the hospital in Palm Coast, continuing her quiet ministry of care to those in need.

Carol’s life was marked by remarkable endurance. She faced the loss of twins, lived courageously with Fibromyalgia—becoming an early voice of awareness in New Jersey through a radio segment—and overcame other serious health challenges. In all of this, she carried on with quiet strength.

Carol was predeceased by her parents, Gertrude “Trudy” Casterline (1994) and Clinton Casterline (2001); her sister, Darlene (1961); and her beloved husband, Joseph G Norton (2021). She is lovingly remembered by her sons, Timothy and Christopher Riley of Arizona; her sister, Lori (Casterline) Wolfe and her husband Mike of Virginia; her brother, Greg Casterline and his wife Linda; as well as her brother-in-law Greg Norton and his wife Sue of Florida and her stepchildren Joey, Tim, and Denise, and their families.

In accordance with Carol’s wishes, there will be no formal service. Following cremation, her ashes will be spread by her sons in Arizona.

Like the cards she so lovingly created, her life was a beautiful gift to all who knew her.