Norma Jean Cribbs

Norma Jean Cribbs, aka NJ, Norm, Ma, Boo, Queen, and Stormin'Norma, born on December 7, 1937, in Martin, Michigan, passed away peacefully on March 17, 2026. A woman of deep generosity, and a joyful spirit, Norma lived a life filled with purpose, kindness, and adventure.

On November 30, 1963, Norma married the love of her life, Thomas J. Cribbs, in Kalamazoo. Together they began their life in Pontiac, later moving to Cleveland, before eventually settling in Shelby Twp. Each place they called home brought new friendships, memories, and opportunities.

Norma's life was marked by service, curiosity, and a deep love for travel. She traveled extensively throughout her life - visiting Thailand, China, Korea, and going on safari in Colombia and India, where she experienced the thrill of seeing tigers in the wild.

After losing her husband in 1989, Norma's compassion only grew stronger. Her home became a home away from home for many. She welcomed people into her home for holidays so no one would feel alone, becoming a source of comfort and belonging for anyone who needed or wanted an extended family.

Norma also volunteered at Beaumont Hospital – Troy, where she offered her time, warmth, and steady presence to those in need. Her kindness and willingness to help made a lasting impact on the people she served.

She was a fan of the Detroit Lions & Tigers and enjoyed watching the games with her son, John and the Lions locker room pep talks with her daughter, Barb. Norma enjoyed golfing, bowling, playing cards until the wee hours of the morning, and the occasional trip to the casino with friends and family. She was also a fan of Chris's band, Woolly, and attended several late-night gigs in Hamtramck. Her humor, kindness, and strong presence made her a cherished friend to many.

Norma worked in the travel industry for three decades, eventually becoming a partner of Kimberly Travel, a well known agency located in downtown Rochester. Her favorite client was the Lions Club & Leader Dogs for the Blind. For twenty years, she helped arrange travel for the incoming and outgoing students and their guide dogs. Norma also showed courage and immense leadership when she ushered her daughter, Carey, and her senior class to Cancun in 1994, and again in 1995! Her combined love of people with her passion for exploring the world, built a respected career that reflected her adventurous spirit. She retired in 2003, leaving behind a legacy of service, leadership, and generosity.

She is survived by her children: John Cribbs, Barbara Czapla, and Carey Cribbs (Christopher Doolittle); her siblings Jacob Rickli and Jim (Carol) Rickli; and her sister in law Eileen Saldi. She is also remembered by many extended and non extended family members who loved her dearly.

Norma was preceded in death by her husband, Thomas J. Cribbs; her parents; her siblings Dorothy Levitt, Alice McCaffrey, Martha Shoemaker, Anne Wells, and Walt Rickli; her son in law Rob Czapla (2014); and her brother in law Francis Cribbs.

No services will be held at this time, but a celebration of life will be scheduled for later this year, with more details to follow.

Norma's life was defined by generosity, faith, love and laughter. Her family takes comfort in knowing she is now at peace, reunited with those who went before her.