Hope Devenish Norton

Hope Devenish Norton, 76, passed away peacefully on July 25, 2026, in Seattle, surrounded by her children. Born on July 18, 1950, in Rochester, New York, Hope spent most of her life in Rockport, before moving to Seattle two years ago to be closer to her daughters in her final years.

Hope was a classically trained opera singer with a master's degree in vocal performance from Indiana University. She was active in the music community of Boston and the North Shore for many years, and sang for decades with the choir at the First Congregational Church of Rockport, right up until her final years there. She was also a gifted quilter. Her quilts were featured in a storefront on Newbury Street in Boston, in an exhibit at the Cape Ann Museum, and in the homes of the people who loved her.

People who knew Hope remember her booming laugh, part firecracker and part song. She had a wacky, colorful spirit and never met a room she couldn't liven up. She was vivacious and endlessly caring, and she was always the first to show up for someone in need.

Hope is survived by her children, Corey Norton (wife Cheryl MacKay), Julia Norton (husband Kenny Shimizu), and Grace Norton; her grandchildren, Thatcher and Andrew Norton and AJ and Freddie Shimizu; and her sister, Debbie Bump. She is predeceased by her husband, Chip Norton.

A funeral service will be held on August 22, 2026, at 11:00 AM at the First Congregational Church of Rockport. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the church or a music program of your choice.