Helen Norton

Helen Rae Norton VIRGINIA BEACH - Helen Rae Norton passed away peacefully after a long illness June 5, 2009, two days after her 90th birthday. She was the widow of John Edward Norton. They raised their five children in Richmond, and after retirement, moved to White Stone, Va. Upon Mr. Norton's death, Mrs. Norton moved to Virginia Beach. Mrs. Norton had many interests; she loved the outdoors and was a strong proponent of conservation. Also, she was an avid bridge player. The Norton family enjoyed boating and had many wonderful adventures in the waters surrounding Virginia and Maryland which contributed to Mrs. Norton's love of the water. She was devoted to her family and her family to her. Her passing will create a void in the family, but her memories will always keep the family together and ever grateful of the precious time that was spent together. She is survived by her five children: son, Michael W. Norton and his wife Judy of New London, N.C.; daughters, Judith N. Fisher and her husband Walter J. Pankiewicz of Virginia Beach, Frances M. Norton of Cromwell, Conn., Bettie A. Bowman and her husband David of Roanoke, Va., and Debra N. Melton of Virginia Beach; sister, Bettie Hunsinger of Temple Terrace, Fla.; six grandchildren; and six great- grandchildren. A special thanks goes to the staff of both Sentara Rosemont Assisted Living and Sentara Hospice for their dedicated and gentle care of Mrs. Norton. They were ever present when needed especially as she approached the end. A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday at Altmeyer Funeral Home, 5792 Greenwich Road, Virginia Beach. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Back Bay Restoration Foundation or the American Lung Association. Condolences may be offered to the family at www.altmeyer.com.