Norma J. (Juday) Dearborn

Norma J. Dearborn, 97, of Kalamazoo, passed away Friday morning, July 18, 2025, at Centrica Rose Arbor Place in Kalamazoo. Norma was born September 9, 1927, in Harvey, Illinois, the daughter of Frank and Hazel (Schmidt) Ehman. She earned her bachelor's degree from Knox College. She was united in marriage to C. Richard Juday, who preceded her in death in 1974. In 1977, she married William Dearborn, Sr. and they were married until his passing in 2007.

Norma lived a life as vibrant and inspiring as the gardens she lovingly tended. A true icon of fashion and design, her elegance was matched only by her generous heart. Through her philanthropic spirit and her years of dedicated volunteer work at the American Cancer Society Discovery Shop, she made a lasting impact on her community.

Her zest for life carried her across the globe as a spirited world traveler, yet her greatest joys were found close to home—surrounded by her beloved children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Norma had a gift for listening that drew people in and fostered friendships wherever she went. Her circle of friends was vast because her warmth and wisdom were limitless.

A gracious host, she orchestrated countless unforgettable gatherings. And in her younger years, she was a force of nature—fishing, sunbathing, water skiing, sailing, snow skiing, and ice skating with undeniable enthusiasm. Later, she embraced golf with gusto and even scored a coveted hole-in-one at the Kalamazoo Country Club, where she was a proud member.

Whether enjoying time with her grandchildren by the pond in her beautiful backyard or sharing stories over coffee with friends, Norma radiated a spirit of joy and connection. Her life was a stunning tapestry woven with elegance, adventure, and unwavering love—for family, for nature, and for the world around her.

Norma is survived by three children, Pamela (Kip) Schumm of Syracuse, IN, Jeffrey (Debbie) Juday of Kernersville, NC, and Timothy (Brandy) Juday of New Carlisle, OH; two stepchildren, Steve (Lola) Dearborn, William (Joan) Dearborn, Jr., six grandchildren, Katrina (Chris) Berg, Kristin (Matt) Stetz, Jacqueline (Nick) Wyatt, Jessica Juday, Tyler (Catie) Juday, and Casey Juday; three step grandchildren, Ryan (Amanda) Dearborn, Jeff (Tracy) Dearborn and Todd (Alysa) Dearborn; eight great grandchildren, Chase and Rhys Berg, Ethan, Kipton and Noelle Stetz, and Bailey, Benjamin and Amelia Juday; seven step great grandchildren, Taylor, Trevor, Spencer, Ethan, Zoe, Sierra and Angelica Dearborn. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, C. Richard Juday, her husband, William Dearborn, Sr., a step grandchild, Andrew Dearborn and stepson Robert Dearborn.

In keeping with her wishes, cremation has taken place. A celebration of Norma’s life will take place at a later date, and she will be laid to rest with Bill at Fort Custer National Cemetery, Augusta. For those who wish to make a contribution in her memory, the family suggests Centrica Care Navigators Hospice Care of Southwest Michigan.