Norma Ruschell

In Memory of
Norma Jean Kelley Ruschell, 80, of Bethesda, MD died at 8:50 am on Thursday, September 5, 2024, as a result of complications following a fall at home. Norma Jean was born in Washington, Pennsylvania, on March 10, 1944. She is the daughter of George William Kelley and Ethel Winona Gump, and the youngest of three sisters, along with Rosie and Nellie. Norma was always the "baby" in the family, but later in life she became a pillar of support for family and friends. In her 20's, Norma took up the martial art of judo and fell in love with her instructor Ralph Ruschell of Avella, PA. Together they moved to the Washington, DC metropolitan area where she continued to train and teach at the Washington Judo Club with Olympians such as Jim Bregman. Norma devoted nearly 40 years to a career as a medical technician at the National Institute of Health (NIH) in Bethesda, MD. Although divorced for years, Norma maintained a good relationship with Ralph for the benefit of their sons. Norma Jean was preceded in death by the love of her life by her companion Terry Lynn Weaver. Norma is survived by her two sons, Erik and Jason; grandson Kristian, and her oldest sister Nellie Baker. Funeral services will be held on September 20, 2024 at William G. Neal Funeral Homes Ltd, 925 Alison Ave, Washington PA. Viewing 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Grave-side service at 2:30 p.m. at North Buffalo Presbyterian Church Cemetery, 711 Rural Valley Rd. Washington PA.