Drama Merritt Norton, 88, of Ocilla, Georgia, died Tuesday, February 27, 2024, at her home, surrounded by her family.
Funeral services will be held 11 AM, Saturday, March 2, 2024, at Ocilla Methodist Church, in Ocilla, Georgia, with the Rev. Jay Roberson officiating and eulogies by Randy Crenshaw, Jo Windom and Dianne Cleghorn. Interment will follow in the Ocilla Cemetery. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the services in the church sanctuary.
Mrs. Norton was born September 14, 1935, in Ocilla, Georgia, to the late Dayton Merritt and the late Minnie Lou Alford Yeary. Mrs. Norton retired from Irwin EMC after 50 years of service. Mrs. Norton enjoyed spending time with her family, they were her purpose and passion. She was a member of Ocilla Methodist Church, where she was an active member of her women’s Circle and served as their Secretary and Treasurer.
She is survived by her husband of 67 years, John C. Norton of Ocilla; two daughters: Dianne & Johnny Cleghorn of Ocilla and Jo & John Windom of Tifton; three grandchildren: Jodi & Justin Willingham, Cliff Benson and Dylan Windom; four great-grandchildren: Gunnar Willingham, Ellie Willingham, Gracie Willingham and Mathis Anne Windom; a brother, Joe & Nancy Alford of Milledgeville; and a special caretaker who was like family, Orlean Bass. In addition to her parents, she was preceded a sister, Dayton Merritt Page.
The family suggests those desiring to send memorials, please send them to Ocilla Methodist Church, P O Box 61, Ocilla, Georgia, 31774 or Hospice of Tift Area, 618 North Central Ave., Tifton, Georgia 31794.
Paulk Funeral Home, Ocilla, is in charge of arrangements.