Norma Leola Ritter

Norma Leola (England) Ritter, born on November 22nd, 1937 in Joplin, MO was sent to her heavenly home on November 25th, 2025, at age 88, after a long battle with dementia. She is the beloved daughter of Paul Edgar England and Laura Orene (Greenlee) England.

Norma, Norma Jean, Sissy or Normal, as she was affectionately known, lived a life showing love to most everyone she knew. If she didn't love you, you probably knew it because of her feisty personality and quick wit. In her childhood, she grew up poor in finances but rich in family and friends. She would tell countless stories about her beloved Aunts and Uncles, going dancing or to the theatre with friends, and working in the laundry to help her mom make ends meet. Most of these stories were laced with humor or a funny song. Later, she married the love of her life, Charles Walter Ritter on May 31st of 1967. Their marriage instantly brought Norma a son (Charles Lee) and a daughter (Theresa). Shortly after, Charles and Norma added Edward (Wayne) and Loretta, Norma was always a devoted homemaker and mom to her children, and many neighborhood kids that came to her house. She cared for others by feeding them and listening without judgment. Her cooking is missed to this day. For all of her life, she was the best mother she could be and doted on her children completely. She enjoyed her little dogs, animals, soap operas and playing the slots.

Norma is survived by her brother, Paul England, her son, Edward (Wayne) Ritter and wife Jennifer, her daughter, Loretta Lynn Williams and husband Von, her step-son, Charles Lee Ritter, her step-daughter, Theresa Clifford and husband John. She is also survived by her grandchild, Codey Ritter, who was a son to her. She is survived by her many grand children and great-grand children, as well as, nieces and nephews who she loved and thought of often.

Norma was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, her brother, Buddy England, sisters, Pauline Williams, Ruth Watts and Lucy Slankard.

Norma was a prayer warrior. Before her dementia progressed, she prayed for people on her knees when it wasn't comfortable. If you knew Norma, you were prayed for. She loved Jesus even if her mouth was sassy and she will forever be missed and loved by all that knew her.
The family will hold A Celebration of Life Services will be held 12:30 pm, December 13, 2026 at Hornet Community Building.