Norma Elaine Anderson

On 4th April 1939, beautiful, lush roses were in full bloom in mountainous Jamaica. More beautiful, indeed, was a bouncing baby girl born to elated parents, Violet and Melbourne Coombs of Clover Hill (Gibralter), St Ann, Jamaica. The couple named her Norma Elaine, the first name being of Latin origin and the second of Greek origin. Both classic names, when coined, exuded the brilliance of a shining light that would typify the vibrancy of a normal life to be lived in the sunshine.

Norma Elaine’s formative education began at Clover Hill Primary School, where she developed childhood friendships, and experienced the joy of giving, sharing, learning, playing and discovering. She subsequently entered Ferncourt High School where more meaningful friendships were forged, and learning took on new meaning for her. By this time, she had become very responsible, and disciplined, as she balanced home chores with her studies.  

Later in life, this beautiful rose captured the heart of Hugh Kelly; they were married, and soon became the proud parents of four lovely children – two daughters and two sons, whom they loved dearly, and protected relentlessly.

Norma Elaine’s years were spent between Jamaica and the United States.  In Jamaica, she was employed as a Sales Clerk at Farel of New York, Jamaica, a prominent men’s clothing store located in Half Way Tree. In the United States, she was employed as Nanny and Caregiver.  In both positions, she demonstrated a commendable ability to interact with, and care for, people in various circumstances, and of different walks of life.  She was caring, friendly, helpful and truly a people’s person, who brought rays of sunshine into the lives of many.

In 1990, Norma Elaine’s desire to be closer to her children, propelled her to relocate from New York to Miami.  It was there in Miami that she attended the Norland Seventh Day Adventist Church, and it was there that she met and was united in marriage with Leton Anderson.

Norma Elaine became an active member of the church; she served on the Usher Board and ministered on the Church’s Choir. Here too, she forged new friendships and brought rays of sunlight to the fellowship that she shared with fellow members. There is no doubt that she loved her church, upheld its principles and valued the experiences that she gained and shared.

This vibrant rose adored her children and grandchildren.  She was happy whenever she was around them and brought bright sunshine into their lives, illuminating their spirits.  Travelling, especially cruising on the wide seas with her family, was one of her favorite hobbies. However, this fashionable lady was able to balance her time well as she invested many dedicated hours to gardening. She was a ‘flowers’ lady; roses being among her favorites. And so, Norma Elaine’s name bore greater significance because of her desire to make others shine even when their day was not going well. Sadly, this beautiful rose, that bloomed in the sunshine for some eighty-three years, peacefully entered her sunset. She will be greatly missed, and her memory will always be cherished.