Norma M Romero

Norma M Romero

Norma M Romero, age 67, of Tempe, Arizona, transitioned from this world on August 6, 2022. She was born on March 28, 1955 to Rafaela (Moreno) and Arturo Romero, who preceded her in death. She grew up in a large loving family in South Phoenix and attended South Mountain High School. As an Arizona State University graduate in Education, she spent most of her years at Kyrene de la Mariposa Elementary as a librarian.

Family was at the center of Norma's life. We were graced with her witty sense of humor and loving supportive presence at the many small and large family gatherings, whether it be holidays, birthdays, making tamales, game nights, impromptu lunches or dinners and especially babysitting for grandchildren. Her crowning achievement was being a mother. She is survived by her children Steven Mendivil (Hannah), Rachel Mendivil, Sara Cruz-Mora(Andy), Andrea Cruz, grandmother Yaya to Brionna, Brandon, Alana, Gabriella, Derrek, Isabel, Kendra, great-grandmother to Hendrix, sister to Stella Ollarsaba (Fred), Margie Wolf (Steve), Art Romero (Argelia), Terri Patton (Steve), tía to 8 nieces and nephews and 6 grandnieces and grandnephews. One of her greatest joys was being a life partner and fiancé to Kevin Steele. The years that they spent together filled her with so much happiness she literally radiated.

Norma loved to share her passion for reading to her students, her library always had an exciting theme that attracted students to come and explore. Hikes on the South Mountain trails was a favorite pastime and her clever Halloween costumes will never be forgotten. She had valued friends that she considered extended family. Her legacy of personal growth in self-awareness, spiritual bond to our Lord, and the warm personal connection she made with all she encountered will sustain us through time. A Celebration of Life will take place in December 2022.