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1928
2017
Let us tell you about our mom. 89 years ago this past January, Norma Ailene Lee Gambrell was born to Willie & Myrtle Lee in Corbin, Kentucky. She was the baby in her family with three older brothers & one sister, all deceased. Mom married her high school sweetheart Harry. They set up house & were blessed with a son Harry Lee & two daughters Judy & Janie before being transferred by their employers at A & P Store. We moved to Hampton, Virginia & welcomed another daughter, Tammy. Moving to Newport News, Virginia the house grew smaller with the addition of baby Susie. We all attended Northampton Church of Christ & made many lifelong friends. Her skill in cooking was evident in the many requests that came from everyone. She was known for her cakes, pies & banana pudding but we all had our favorites that she never failed to supply. The family moved to Williamsburg in 1965 where we quickly became active members of Williamsburg Christian Church.
As our immediate family grew, son Harry had three sons: Michael, (father to Dakota Meyer); Robb, (married Sarah & they have Lola & Kai); & Jeff. Judy married Robert Taylor of North Carolina & have Robin & David (married Bethany & gave us Colby, Mack & Levi). Janie fell in love with Charles Heishman & they happily share Adam (married Beth & have Allison & Mackenzie), Casey (married Andy Luders & have Matt, Noah & Aaron), Stephanie Lanier, Stoney & Logan. Tammy married Jim Kennedy & have one son, Jeremy. Susie married Alvin Waltrip & have two sons Danny (married to Erin & have Gabriel & Mikayla), Brad (father to Carson), & Andrea (married Forrest Goalder). On May 11, 2017, Mom has now joined our Daddy Harry & their great granddaughter, Genevieve Waltrip.
During these years we grew very active with our church family. Mom taught us to see the needs of others & help whenever possible. She instilled Christian values & in her final time on Earth, these same Christian friends returned blessings in full.
Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, May 21 with visitation at 2:00 pm, services to follow at 3:00 pm at Williamsburg Christian Church, 200 John Tyler Lane, Williamsburg, VA 23185. In lieu of flowers, please make contributions to Williamsburg Christian Church (please designate your donation as it will go to help with the Christian Relief Fund, Kenya Africa, where mom sponsored an orphaned child). Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.nelsencares.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by Nelsen Funeral Home - Williamsburg.
May 30, 2017
Wendy Robinson
Another angel has flown to her Glory. I will miss Ms. Norma and her delicious "turtles". Trust God for he does no wrong and know that soon we shall all meet and rejoice in heaven. Love to the Family and prayers . Harry and Norma once again reunited.
May 25, 2017
Susie Waltrip
4 year old Carson says, "I miss Grandma, do you miss Grandma?" yes Carson, we all miss Grandma. But remember, she is with Jesus & Papa. Carson says, "what is the name of the city where she is?" Heaven. The name of the city is Heaven.
May 24, 2017
Love and Miss you Moma. XOXO
Janie
May 21, 2017
I will always treasure the time that I knew her. She was such a good example of a Christian woman, a Christian wife and a Christian mother. May your faith in Christ comfort you at this time. I send my deepest sympathy.
May 21, 2017
Ronald Grossman
To Tammy,Susie and Jane:
I extend my deepest sympathies. It was a pleasure to know your mother and the grand lady she was.
May 20, 2017
Jack & Stacy VanLeliveld
We were so sorry to hear of the passing of your mom. She was a real treat to be around! Unfortunately we will not be able to join you on Sunday but please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you.
May 18, 2017
Judy Gambrell
My thoughts and prayers are will you all. Prayers sent for conform thur this sad time in life. Love and hugs to all.
May 17, 2017
Marsha Clark
Dear Tammy, Susie, Jane & all of your siblings & family, I am so very sorry to hear of Norma's passing. She was a special lady for sure. I am thinking of you.
May 16, 2017
Melanie Hood
I will always love Norma and Harry who called me #5 (the 5th daughter). Many, many memories over the years to cherish! Prayers, hugs and much love for the family during this difficult time! You are all so special to me!
May 16, 2017
Janice Kirby Baxter
Some of my fondest memories are of Harry and Norma, two of the sweetest people I've ever known. I know they are reunited now, angels in the arms of the Lord. My condolences to the entire family.
May 16, 2017
Wayne & Debbie Lawson
Susie, and all of your family, we are so very sorry to hear of your Mom's home going because we know how much all of you will miss her. But we rejoice in the fact that you will see her again! She is now with your Dad and their great granddaughter,Genevieve, and don't you know, they are having a wonderful reunion! Love and HUGS to all of you during this time. We love you and will be praying for peace and comfort.
May 15, 2017
Norma was a lovely lady. I pray that happy memories of your parents will console you during this sad time.
Linda Martin Warner
May 15, 2017
Michael "Mike" Gambrell
I can't believe your gone...
But, I'm thankful for the time we had...
You're the Best Grandma anyone could ever have...
I Love You Nanny! I miss you every day.
Your #1 Grandchild,
Michael
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