There are condolences waiting approval on Norma's Tribute wall
Celebrating the life of Norma Roberta Smith
Be the first to share your favorite memory, photo or story of
Norma.
This memorial page is dedicated for family, friends and future generations to celebrate
the life of their loved one.
We ask on behalf of the family that you keep your comments uplifting and appropriate
to help all who come here to find comfort and healing.
Obituary for Norma Roberta Smith
An Memorial Service will be held for Norma on
Saturday, July 31, 2021
Wood Funeral Home, Inc. 5537-39 West Girard Avenue Philadelphia, Pa. 19131
Service: 11:00 a.m.
Norma Roberta Clark Smith was born on April 16, 1941, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the second child of Clara and Enormel Clark. She was known at times as “Smith”, “Bobbi Clark”, as well as “Norma Jean” to varying friends, coworkers and family members. She had two siblings, Josephine (Blackwell) and Sheila (Jackson). In 1951, she moved along with her family to Swarthmore, Pennsylvania. After graduating from Swarthmore High School in 1958, Norma attended Bloomsburg State College. She received a degree in Education in 1962.
Norma married Wendell Wilson Smith in 1965, raised two sons, Adrian Smith and Andre Smith, adopted a daughter, Deborah Brooks Smith Drummond, and fostered two girls, sisters Wendy and Lori Gonzalez.
In 1962, Norma began her long career in teaching starting with a typing class at Chi- Chester High School. She then served the School District of Philadelphia for more than 30 years, teaching Pre-K and elementary aged children. After retiring, Norma continued to serve her community by doing taxes for Sharon Baptist, a local church in West Philadelphia.
Norma was an avid reader and explorer, traveling to far flung places such as China, Egypt, Rome, Portugal, and Spain among others. She enjoyed gardening in her back yard along with arts and crafts. She was also entertained by Masterpiece Theatre and enjoyed classical music from artists such as Nina Simone and the Boston Pops.
Norma leaves behind: children, Adrian, Andre and Deborah; grandchildren, Lauren Johnson, Jarmar Bridges, Jr., Jasmyne Smith, Christina Johnson and Marley Smith; her sister, Sheila Jackson; along with a nephew Cass Malik Jackson; niece, Ingrid “Caci” Blackwell; as well as, many cousins, family and friends.
