Norma Jean Petersen Newsome

Norma Jean Petersen Newsome, 85, widow of Captain James Walton Newsome (U.S. Navy - retired), antiques dealer and appraiser, died at her home in Alexandria, Virginia on March 20. Norma was born on July 20, 1932 in Gibson City, Illinois, the daughter of Walter E. and Laura Kafer Petersen. Norma became an antiques dealer in the early 1980s and after the passing of her husband Jim in 1986, she expanded her professional activities to include appraisals and estate sales. During her 32-year marriage, Norma accompanied her husband, a Navy pilot, during his military career to almost twenty duty stations all over the United States as well as Guam and Ecuador before settling in Fairfax County, Virginia in 1971 where they remained after Jim retired from the Navy in 1976. Norma traveled extensively, was an avid bridge player, and a devoted friend. She raised three sons and was especially devoted to her family. Norma was energetic, thoughtful, formidable, and giving. Norma is survived by her sons Rick, David, and Rob, her daughters-in-law Claire and Barbara, her six grandchildren Lizzy, Barry, Sarah, Jeff, Sam, and Eliza, and her three great grandchildren Yui, Ren, and Sawyer. A memorial service will be held on Sunday, April 8 at 1 p.m. at Demaine Funeral Home on 5308 Backlick Road in Springfield, Virginia. Norma will be laid to rest with her husband Jim in Arlington National Cemetery at a later date.