July 19, 1941 – May 22, 2025

With deep love and heavy hearts, we share that Judith (Judy) Dianne Norton passed away peacefully on May 22, 2025, at the age of 83. Born in Frewsburg, New York, on July 19, 1941, Judy was a person of strength, kindness, wisdom, and unwavering support.

Judy will be remembered for her quick wit, her deep appreciation for nature, and her love for her family. She found special delight in birds—watching them feed just outside her windows brought her happiness. Her pride and affection for her children and grandchildren was always abundantly clear. Judy had a heart for those in need and quietly spent time supporting the underserved.

She lived a full life across many cities: Frewsburg and Ithaca, New York; Fayetteville, Arkansas; Columbus, Ohio; and Cumming, Georgia. Judy’s early years were spent on her family’s dairy farm, where she learned the value of hard work — driving tractors, milking cows, and raising chickens. She was driven, spending time in high school as a German-American Field Service exchange student and competing on the debate team.

Judy earned her degree in Social Work from Kent State University, and it was through community involvement with the Jamestown Young Adult Civic Council that she met her husband, Bob Norton. They married in 1964 and shared a beautiful 61-year journey together, filled with love, hard work, and mutual support. Judy was by Bob’s side through his PhD studies and their many travels through twenty-five countries, including a memorable three months in Hamburg, Germany.

Throughout her life, Judy focused on supporting her family and raising her three children. Judy also worked as a social worker, HR manager, and dedicated volunteer. Her contributions to the Forsyth County Literacy Program and Ohio State University’s Master Gardener Program reflect her commitment to learning and service. Her home was also a showcase for her many flower beds and value for beauty. Judy was a member of First Community Church in Ohio, and has attended and served at different churches throughout her life.

Judy enjoyed family camping trips, international travel, and multiple cruises alongside Bob. She was a gracious holiday host, a loyal friend, a lover of hot black coffee and a good mystery novel on her back porch. She was a talented piano player, enjoyed a nice glass of chardonnay, and loved caring for her sweet kitty cats. At Holbrook Assisted Living, she embraced her community, joining the book club and the Stitch and Sew group with warmth and intentionality.

Judy was preceded in death by her parents, Ruth and Gordon Danielson. She is survived by her beloved husband, Robert Norton; her brother, Gordon Danielson; her children, Glenn Norton, Steven Norton, and Jayne Norton Lane; her son-in-law, Sidney Lane; and her grandchildren, Coleman Norton, Charlotte Norton, Noah Lane, and Micah Lane.

Friends and family are invited to join for a Celebration of Life Memorial Service on Saturday, May 31, at 1pm. It will be held at Holbrook Assisted Living Facility at 5135 W Broad St, Sugar Hill, GA, 30518. Condolences can be sent to Robert Norton at Holbrook at the same address, Unit 154. There will be a second service held later this summer in Elba, New York. Judy’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

Georgia Cremation in Duluth assisted the family with arrangements.