Norma Marie Perry, age 84, of Overland Park, KS, entered heaven Friday, February 11, 2011. She was born in Scotland, AR on January 29, 1927. She was the daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Colemann, devoted wife of Truman Perry for 61 years, who precedes her in death, and loving mother of Tom (& Debbie), Tim & (Heidi) Perry. She was a proud grandmother to Tisha (& John) Patton, Andrew and Elizabeth Perry, and great-grandmother to Tozer and Titus Patton. She was most known for her passionate love for her Lord and for her family. She had the gift of hospitality and graciously whipped up decadent meals for her loved ones. Norma loved to serve others with Martha Stewart as her culinary idol. Her grandkids and great-grandkids enjoyed many trips to the zoo, beach and just playing together ? they were loved beyond measure by her. Norma was a true example of the "greatest generation" and all of the finest qualities that generation possesses. Born in AR and raised in OK during the Great Depression, she had those enduring qualities of selflessness, quiet confidence and determination. She never complained and was always grateful for all the possessions in life. She was a devout Christian, attending Indian Heights United Methodist Church, and was deeply involved in its activities, including being a Sunday school teacher. Norma taught young children for several decades. Her love for the Lord was impactful upon the Perry family for many generations. She was a successful residential realtor first in Topeka, Kansas, with Kirk & Co., and later for many years with J.C. Nichols and Co. in Kansas City. She was associated with some of the most beautiful homes in the Kansas City area. Norma always had a sharp mind and kept it active throughout her life, being a consistent bridge player (with the same partners for 30+ years, although we never knew who won), and an ardent crossword player of the KC Star. She was happy and active, taking dancing lessons and attending weekly "tea dances" with her beloved friends from Kingswood. Visitation and memorial services will be held Tuesday, Feb. 15, 2011. Visitation will be from 10a.m.-11a.m., and memorial services starting at 11 a.m. at Indian Heights United Methodist Church, 10211 Nall Ave., Overland Park, KS 66207. Private burial will be in Yukon, OK next to her husband. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials in Norma's name be made to Indian Heights United Methodist Church (Arr: D.W. Newcomer's Sons Overland Park Chapel, 8201 Metcalf Ave., Overland Park, KS 66204.) Fond memories and condolences for the family may be left at www.overlandparkchapel.com

Published in The Oklahoman on February 14, 2011