Judy Norton Hale

Judy Norton Hale, 78, of Cullowhee, NC, went home to be with the Lord on August 16, 2025, surrounded by her daughter and grandchildren, after a hard-fought battle of chronic illness.

Judy was born in March of 1947 in Fairmont, West Virginia, the daughter of late Lena “Lorraine” Norton and Roy Lem Norton. Judy was raised in Cullowhee North Carolina and was a graduate of Cullowhee High School.

Judy worked as an administrative assistant at Western Carolina University, serving the Nursing, Math, Science, and Psychology departments for 33 years. She was recognized for being an outstanding support staff where she was nominated for the Judy H. Dowell award. She was joked to be the “real boss” of the department and loved by any who had the pleasure of working with her. Judy especially loved the outdoors, cooking/canning, and family gatherings. She was the proud owner of many blue ribbons from the Mountain Heritage cannery competition for her infamous salsa, pickles, beets and tomatoes. Judy was a member of the Summit Church of Sylva, NC and was actively involved with meals on wheels where she would take her grandchildren to learn the value of serving others.

Anyone who knew Judy knew she loved her dogs, Rocky and Chica, more than anyone listed below. They were her world, and she was theirs.

Remaining to cherish Judy’s memory are her loving daughter, Becky Williamson, who dedicated the last two years of her life to being the sole caregiver and companion to her mother. Joining Becky are her grandchildren, Nathan Stephens, Kayla Beutell (Thomas); great grandchildren Cerenity Stephens, Lane Brooks, Rhyan Brooks, and Kaiser Beutell; sisters, Karen Lamb (Eddie) and Linda Wittekind (Dick); nephews, Jimmy Lamb, Chris Wittekind, Kevin Wittekind, and one bonus beloved grandchild, Andrew Castillo.

Awaiting Judy in heaven are her parents, and beloved son, Richard Lem Williamson, who went home to be with the lord shortly after birth.

A celebration of life will be held at 3 pm on Saturday August 23, 2025, in the chapel of Appalachian Funeral Services. Family will receive friends beginning at 2pm.