Norma May Ashman Fearon, age 77, left us peacefully on July 13, 2025, with her family by her side at the Robert Wood Johnson Hospital in New Jersey, United States.
She was born on November 23, 1947, at the Mandeville Hospital in Manchester, Jamaica, to Gertrude Hinds, a cook, and Vernon Ashman, a dental technician.
Norma was lovingly raised in Petersfield, St Mary by her grandmother, Gertrude Tulloch, who instilled in her a deep sense of discipline and resilience and her grandfather, Myah Hinds, a hardworking farmer.
Norma completed her primary and intermediate education at Retreat Primary and Iona High Schools, finishing her studies in 1968. Early on, she showed great ambition and a clear calling to serve others. She studied first at SUNY Cortland in New York and then at the University College of Nursing, earning her diploma and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
Young, beautiful, and full of promise, Norma fell in love and married Earl Fearon Sr., a Correctional Officer. They settled in St. Catherine and built a strong and loving family. Together, they raised their two sons, Anthony and Vaughn—her pride and joy, whom she lovingly referred to as “her pearls.” To Norma, they were treasures beyond measure, carried close to her heart.
Norma remained committed to growth and excellence. She later earned a postgraduate qualification from the University of the West Indies to become a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), enabling her to serve more broadly—first in public clinics, and later breaking ground in the private sector. She worked with Carreras Group, Sagicor, and eventually opened her own practice, offering medical examinations for insurance clients and school entrants.
A true self-starter, Norma believed in lifelong learning. At age 50, she returned to the University of the West Indies and earned a Master of Science in Counseling Psychology, deepening her passion for holistic care and wellness. She became a tireless advocate for mental, physical, and spiritual well-being, encouraging others to pursue balance and health in every aspect of life.
Norma was not a perfectionist, but she gave her very best, especially when she knew her efforts could help someone. She sometimes found it hard to say “no,” but only because she cared deeply. Her commitment earned her the respect of many, and she was honored to serve as a Justice of the Peace (or Notary Public, which is the term in the US). She was truly a stalwart figure in her community.
But Norma was more than her achievements. She was vibrant and fun-loving. She brought joy wherever she went. Her hobbies included playing the keyboard, dancing, gardening, and even modeling—she had style and grace in abundance. And if you truly knew her, you’d remember her full, hearty laugh—legs up, hands clutched to the chair—laughter that could light up a room. Her personal motto was, “Smile, and the world smiles back at you.”
As children, we didn’t have much choice about going to church—but through her example, we learned the value of belonging to a strong Christian community. Norma served faithfully at the Cathedral of St. Jago de la Vega in Spanish Town under Canon Reid for over 50 years, supporting numerous charities. In her later years, she was ordained as a Lay Reader and had a remarkable gift for illuminating Scripture, helping many apply God’s Word to their lives.
Norma, you came, you served, you fulfilled your purpose. You will be deeply missed.
We love you and will cherish your memory always.
She recommitted her life to Jesus Christ, asking for forgiveness and placing her faith in Him. And so, with confidence, we believe she has entered into eternal peace. Amen.
Norma is survived by her sons, Anthony and Vaughn, daughter-in-law, Sharon, granddaughter, Mickhaila, Aunt Geraldine, siblings, nieces, nephews, and a host of cousins.
May perpetual light shine upon her, and may her soul rest in peace.