Norma Jean Sharp

In loving memory of our dearly beloved mother and grandmother, Norma Jean Sharp was welcomed into the arms of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on May 27, 2025. She passed away peacefully in her Milton, Iowa home surrounded by family. She was 92 years young.
Norma Jean was born on November 7, 1932, in Rock Springs, Wyoming, and left abandoned on a doorstep. Norma Jean was adopted by Jay and Katherine Clark Griffith. Her early years were spent in Grinnell, Iowa, where she laid the foundations of a life marked by compassion and service to others.
A proud graduate of Mount Pleasant High School, Norma Jean's pursuit of knowledge led her to further her education in Burlington, where she earned her credentials as a Registered Nurse. Her career in nursing began at Grinnell Hospital, and she would continue to offer her healing touch at various hospitals throughout her esteemed career.
On November 6, 1954, Norma Jean married the love of her life, James E. Sharp, in Grinnell, IA. Meeting as children, they were reunited following Norma Jean's graduation. Over the years, the family enjoyed the many stories of their childhood antics. They were blessed with three children, Danny, Maria, and Joe and lived in Newton while raising their family. Jim and Norma Jean celebrated 66 years of marriage in 2020.
In the mid-1980s, Norma Jean's passion for home interior design led her to leave the nursing profession and open a small shop in Newton called, Something Beautiful. Her boutique reflected her exquisite taste and artistic vision.
Norma Jean's entrepreneurial spirit continued when she established the Makarios Mansion in 1993 - a 16,000 ft bed and breakfast house located in Conrad, Iowa. There, she warmly welcomed guests and hosted numerous church events, corporate retreats, and weddings. She created a haven of fellowship and spirituality.
Retirement did not slow Norma Jean down! She embraced this new chapter by moving to live with her daughter Maria in Van Buren County, where she enjoyed the tranquility of the countryside and small-town living.
Norma Jean's faith was a cornerstone of her life. She was an active member of the InterVarsity Christian Fellowship Group. Her home was always a sanctuary for bible studies, and she extended her ministry to many; including Grinnell college students, local faith leaders, and anyone who needed a safe space and refuge. Norma Jean touched countless lives with her wisdom, loving heart and grace. Her home was a melting pot for all religions to unite and grow in community. Anyone who met Norma Jean instantly became family.
An avid reader and writer, Norma Jean found joy in the pages of books and the flow of her pen. She loved making notes, highlighting her favorite Bible verses, writing beautiful letters, and planting her red geraniums in springtime.
She made sure every meal, gathering, and event was a special occasion. Always using her best china, her table was set elegantly as she so enjoyed serving her delicious signature dishes with love. It was truly always "Something Beautiful."
However, her greatest delight was her family, particularly in her role as a Grand Mommy. Her grandchildren were the light of her life, and she loved every moment spent with them.
Norma Jean leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories. She is survived by her daughter, Maria Sharp; son, Joe Sharp (Erin) of Newton; and the grandchildren she adored, Colin Sharp, Cameron Sharp, Lea Ferrant, Carli Silva, and Brandon (Heather) Evans; and her great grandson, Christian Evans. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband James, her son Daniel Sharp, and her parents.
Norma Jean was a woman of remarkable strength and endurance, and it was visible through her kindness and gentleness. She was an earth angel of unwavering faith, hope, and love for her family and friends.
In accordance with her wishes, her body has been cremated, and a celebration of her life will be held at a later date. Cards and Memorial contributions to her family may be mailed to Maria Sharp, P.O. Box 76 Milton, IA 52570. Family and friends may leave online condolences.