Norma Lou Korman, 87, of Montgomery City, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.
Born to Samuel Lee Ward and Nellie L. (Peery) Ward on September 3, 1937, in Montgomery County, Norma lived a full and vibrant life rooted in love, laughter and service to others. She married the love of her life, Tommy Joe Korman, on September 28, 1954, in Hernando, Miss. The two shared 70 wonderful years of marriage before Tom’s passing in November 2024. Norma devoted herself to his care in his final years, reflecting her deep love and unwavering commitment.
Norma was a woman of many talents. She worked side by side with Tom in construction for many years, never afraid to get her hands dirty and always proud of a job well done. She was also active in the community, serving as a member of the Sparklers with the Rural Fire Department and working as secretary at Bethel Church for several years.
She loved the outdoors—especially hunting and fishing—and could tell the most outrageous stories that would leave everyone in stitches. Her humor was “different,” you could say, and completely her own. Even when she wasn’t feeling well, she could light up a room with laughter. She had a rare gift for making people feel good.
Norma’s family was her greatest joy. She cherished every moment with them and poured her heart into making memories that will last forever. She adored her dogs and her flowers and liked to help others—always giving, never asking. Her spirit was generous and strong, with a love for dancing, games, cards and life itself.
Norma will be deeply missed by all who knew her, but her stories, her laughter and her example will live on.
Norma is survived by her three children: Dianna (Tom Block) Korman Zumwalt of Montgomery City, Linda (Gary) Korman Cuno, and Dennis (Margie) Korman of Austin, Texas; grandchildren: Stephanie Cuno of Montgomery City, Sandy Cuno of Montgomery City, Tammy Vera of Austin, Texas, Victoria (Tito) Hernandez of Austin, Texas, Samantha (Levon Ingram) Brooks Jay of Vienna (Maries County) and Lindsey (Darren Brookman) Brooks of Montgomery City; great-grandchildren, Gabby, Jeremiah, Tito, Makayla, Carson, Lily, Liam and Myla; sister, Helen McKay of Montgomery City; and her beloved dogs, Hershey and Lily.
She is also survived by her favorite nurses, Jessica and Karen Creech, whose incredible and compassionate care brought comfort and dignity to Norma’s final chapter. Their countless hours of dedication will never be forgotten and the family extends its deepest thanks and appreciation for their unwavering support.
Norma was preceded in death by her parents, Samuel and Nellie Ward; grandson, Shaun Sturgeon; parents-in-law, Felix “Cotton” and Cecil Korman; son-in-law, Pat Zumwalt; brother, Kenneth Wayne Ward; sisters, Betty Haworth, Margaret “Mag” Grossenhieder and Lea Elkins; and dogs Rusty, Bubba and Bo.
A graveside memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. on May 6 at the Bethel Cemetery in Wellsville, with Pastor Christopher Crowson officiating.
Memorial contributions are suggested to the Bethel Cemetery Association or to the High Point Community Chapel, in care of Schlanker Funeral Home, 207 Danville Road, Montgomery City, Missouri 63361.
