Norma Lee Elsey, age 89, passed away Sunday, July 25, 2021.
She was the daughter of Tarquin and Kathleen Bennett and grew up in Marshall, IL, graduating from St. Anthony’s Nursing School in Terre Haute, IN, as a registered nurse. After her marriage to William Elsey, they moved to Lebanon, and resided there for most of her life. She worked at Witham Hospital and at other medical facilities, raised her family, participated in her church and her sorority, Epsilon Sigma Alpha. She and Bill started the Dog Obedience program for 4-H in Boone County, which grew from her love for German Shepherd dogs and desire to give back to her community.
Norma was widely seen as a woman of incredible strength and warmth. Her determination to overcome life’s challenges, and her bravery in the face of hardship will be remembered by those she knew. There was always a kind word and a happy smile for everyone. Her devout faith sustained her throughout her life, and she was a long-time member of the First Baptist Church.
We will think of her each time we eat a chili cheese dog and drink a chocolate soda from the Dairy Queen. We will miss her special devilled eggs at every holiday meal. Norma will be in our hearts forever.
Norma will join her husband, parents and siblings in eternal rest. She is survived by her daughters, Diana Parr (Randy), Kathy Donaldson (Bob), and Janice Strazzinski (Rene), and leaves 6 grandsons and a granddaughter, 8 great grandchildren, and 1 great great grandson.
She was well cared for by many in our community. We would like to thank the staff at Homewood and Crown Pointe, Paradigm Hospice, Witham Hospital, and her physicians. We would especially like to thank Pastor Dave from the First Baptist Church.
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to Shalom House or the First Baptist Church. Services will be held 12 noon in the Strawmyer & Drury Mortuary, 2400 N. Lebanon Street, Lebanon on Wednesday, July 28th. Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until time of the service.
