Norma Jean Hooper

Norma Jean Hooper, age 86, of Sylva passed away Saturday, February 24, 2024 at Autumn Care of Waynesville after a period of declining health.

Born on May 16, 1937 in Sylva, Jean was the daughter of the late Roy L. Sellers and Bertha Lawing Sellers. In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her husband Earl Hooper, infant son Michael D. Hooper, brother Terry Sellers, and sister Betty Owen.

Jean is survived by one son Rick Hooper and wife Joan of Sylva; daughter Sherry Hooper of Newland NC; special daughter Andrea Thurn of Newland; sister-in-law Linda Sellers of Columbus, MS; nephew Kim and wife Tammy and nieces Dottie Franklin, Donna Owen, and Pam McIntyre.

Jean was a member of New Hope Baptist Church. She loved her church family and could often be found in the kitchen preparing meals for church functions. She was very creative and enjoyed doing a variety of crafts. She also enjoyed gardening and working in her flowers.

Jean was a very kind and loving wife and mother. She will be missed by all those who loved her.

A funeral service will be held at 1:00 Tuesday, February 27, 2024 at New Hope Baptist Church.  Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends from 12:00 – 1:00 prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to New Hope Baptist Church Building Fund PO Box 245 Sylva, NC 28779. Donations may also be made to Brasstown Cemetery Fund c/o Sherry Hooper 1212 Land Harbor Newland, NC 28657.

Appalachian Funeral Services is in charge of arrangements.