Norma Jo Spokowski

Norma Jo Spokowski, 84, passed away peacefully on May 31, 2026. She was born on December 25, 1941, in Creighton, Nebraska, where she spent her early years before moving to the East Coast in her twenties to begin a new chapter of her life.

Norma was a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. She is lovingly remembered by her children: daughters, Ashley Spokowski (Brian Gould) and Stephanie Hadaway (Eric Hadaway); and sons, Ted Carlin (Sulynn Carlin) and Patrick Carlin. She took immense pride in her grandchildren, Alyssa Carlin, Chelsey Carlin, Aubrey Carlin, Calvin Carlin, Taylor Bechtel, and Casey Bechtel, each of whom brought her great joy.

She is also survived by her sisters, DeeAnn Meyer and Jackie Falter, and her brothers, Dwight Burns, Jeff Burns, Doug Burns, and Tim Burns. Norma held close to her heart her cherished pets, Fran and Maggie, who brought her comfort and companionship.

Norma was preceded in death by her devoted husband, Peter Spokowski; her parents, John and Edna Burns; and her brothers, Bobby Burns and Ed Burns.

For much of her career, Norma dedicated herself to serving students and educators in the Williamsburg-James City County School District. She worked as a librarian assistant at Laurel Lane (formerly Rawls Byrd), Lafayette High School, and Jamestown High School. Norma had a deep love for books and found joy in sharing that passion with the many children she encountered over the decades. Her quiet encouragement and gentle presence left a lasting impression on countless young readers.

Outside of her work, Norma found happiness in life’s simple pleasures. She loved tending to her garden and nurturing her beautiful flower beds, creating peaceful spaces filled with color and life. She also enjoyed baking for family and friends, often expressing her love through homemade treats that brought people together. In quieter moments, she delighted in working on puzzles, a pastime that reflected both her patience and her thoughtful nature. Norma also enjoyed traveling and embraced the many opportunities to explore throughout her life. She generously gave her time volunteering at the Good Shepherd’s Food Pantry, where she found meaning in helping and serving others in her community.

Norma will be remembered as a soft-spoken, gentle soul whose kindness and warmth touched all who knew her. Her strong faith was a guiding force in her life, and she remained devoted to her religion throughout her years.

A funeral service to celebrate Norma’s life will be held on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, at 12:00 PM at St. Bede Catholic Church, 3686 Ironbound Road, Williamsburg, Virginia. All are welcome and encouraged to attend.

In honor of Norma’s bright spirit and the joy she brought to others, attendees are invited to wear bright colors as we celebrate her life and the light she shared with so many.