Obituaries – Their Stories Live On

Mrs. Norma Jean Braxton

3/11/1942 - 6/20/2025

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Obituary For Mrs. Norma Jean Braxton

Mrs. Norma Jean Pankey-Braxton, 83, of Harvey, West Virginia, entered eternal rest on June 20, 2025. She was born on March 11, 1942, in Ingram Branch, WV, to the late Richard Pankey and Elenor Ruth Woodson-Pankey. Due to the passing of her mother at an early age, Norma was raised by Nanny and Willie Boy “Papa” Staunton.

Norma graduated from Mt. Hope High School in 1960 and went on to build a meaningful and impactful career in healthcare. She began her journey as an LPN at the Miners Hospital (ARH) and later worked as a pharmacy technician under Dr. Wing at Beckley Hospital until its closing. Norma concluded her career at New River Health Care Center, where she worked as both an LPN and in medical records. She retired at the remarkable age of 77 on December 20, 2019.

Norma was baptized at the early age of 12 in Ingram Branch, where her unshakable faith took root and became the foundation of her life forever. Building upon this strong spiritual foundation, she later became a devoted member of Harvey Missionary Baptist Church. She served God faithfully through ministry. She was a member of the New River Women’s Convention, treasurer of the New River Valley Missionary Baptist Association, member of the New River #3 Congress of Christian Education, member of New River Combine Congress of Christian Education, worked in the West Virginia Baptist State Convention Credit Union, wrote Bible Bowl questions for WVSBC Congress of Christian Education, Assistant Financial Secretary for WVSBC Women’s Auxiliary, member of the WVSBC Mass Choir. Yet, playing the piano was her most cherished contribution. Norma truly loved playing the piano and practiced every day, pouring her heart into every note as a sincere reflection of her passion and commitment to excellence. Her love for the Lord radiated through her selfless service to her church, her family, and her community.

Norma married James Braxton on April 5th of 1958. Although their paths in life eventually changed, James remained one of her dearest and lifelong friends. Together, they shared five beloved children: the late Olga Braxton; Prisuave “Pat” Walker (Mark) of Harvey, WV; Paulette Braxton of Palmdale, CA; Marvin Braxton of Charleston, WV; James “Knotney” Braxton of Harvey, WV; Anthony Braxton of Prudence, WV; and Toni Hicks (Tim) of Flint, MI.

Norma’s greatest joy in life was her family. She leaves behind a rich legacy of 9 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren, each of whom she loved deeply. The grandchildren are Mark Walker Jr., Mar’Micka Walker, Olga Walker, La’Stana (Clifton) Howard, Phylicia Braxton, Vallarie Webber, Marvin Braxton Jr., Caleb Braxton, and Knaija Murray. She shared a special bond with every one of them, offering constant love, support, and wisdom that will be remembered always.

Norma was the oldest of 12 siblings, which included Betty (Jenkins) Fulton of Brooklyn, NY, Michael (Betty) Pankey of Ft. Washington, MD, Tressie (Grover) Hardy of Harvey, WV; Irvine (Marceita) Pankey of Capital Heights, MD; Christy Pankey of Baltimore, MD; Christine Wells-Williams of Southfield, MI; Robert (Rita) Pankey of Upper Marlboro, MD, Russel Pankey of Winston-Salem, NC, Sharain Pankey of Beckley, WV; David Pankey of Brooklyn, NY and Candice Pankey of Beckley, WV.

Norma is survived by loving in-laws, cherished nieces/nephews, and a host of long-time friends who brought joy to her life and will carry her memory in their hearts, comforted by the promise of God’s everlasting peace.

Norma, in addition to her parents, was preceded in death by her daughter, Olga Braxton and siblings, Betty Fulton, Tressie Hardy, David Pankey, Christy Pankey, Wayne Pankey, and Eugene Pankey.

Norma Jean’s life was one of compassion, strength, and grace. Her presence uplifted everyone she encountered, and her unwavering dedication to her loved ones was a true inspiration. She will be remembered as a faithful servant, a devoted mother and grandmother, a loving sister, and a loyal friend. To the world, she was a cherished celebrity and guiding light. More than a star, she was a vessel of love, humility, and divine purpose. Her spirit radiated far beyond the spotlight, touching souls and uplifting hearts with a quiet power that could never be dimmed. Though her earthly journey has come to a close, her light remains eternal—a beacon in the hearts of all who knew her and a sacred reminder that true beauty and grace transcend time. Heaven has welcomed a shining soul, and we are forever changed by the blessing of her presence.
Love, Peace, and Happiness.. Norma.

Funeral service will be 12:00PM Saturday, June 28, 2025 at Hilltop Baptist Center
285 The Baptist Road Hilltop. Burial will follow in Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens, Prosperity.

Friends, while wearing masks and observing social distancing, may visit with the family one-hour prior.

To livestream visit David Martin’s Facebook page

Email condolences to ritchiejohnsonfuneralparlor@gmail.com.

Arrangements entrusted to Ritchie & Johnson Funeral Parlor, Beckley.

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Tributes

Deborah Pankey - 01/01/1970

To the Family - You remain in our thoughts and prayers as we thank God for the gift of our beloved Norma Jean. Her memory will forever live on in our hearts. Love Cousin Jennifer Pankey & Family
Kellie Bailey sent Sweet Moments for Mrs. Norma Jean Braxton - 06/26/2025

Norma Jean I know I will see you again Have the watermelon ready and bring Linda. Love you much Kellie, and Deja
Natarsha Goode sent Mixed flowers in a handled basket for Mrs. Norma Jean Braxton - 06/26/2025

We are so sorry for the loss of your beloved matriarch. We wrap our arms around you in love and support. Thoughts & Prayers Winfield & Graves Family

Condolences

07/19/2025

Lisa Tolliver

I'm so sorry for your loss, Ms Braxton was such a nice lady. I worked with her at Beckley hospital, she was always so cheerful and upbeat.
06/28/2025

Lavon Butler

Aunt Jean was truly a light in this world, spreading love, joy, happiness, and kindness wherever she went. Her spirit touched everyone she met, and her absence leaves a space that can never be filled. May the warmth of memories shared with her bring comfort during this time of grief. Holding the family in love and prayer as we celebrate the beautiful soul she was. KoKo (Lavon)
06/27/2025

- Charlene Wynes Davis

Prayers
06/26/2025

Gwendolyn Ray
06/26/2025

Angela Page

Cousin Norman Jean. We will missed your beautiful smile; it was so, contagious it would light...up!!! A room. May you rest in peace. 🕊 Love Cousin Angie & Family
06/26/2025

Sharon Eddleman Holland

Norma Jean was a delight, to say the least. It was a joy to work with her at New River. Thoughts and prayers to her family. Looking forward to seeing her again in Heaven. Sharon Eddleman Holland
06/25/2025

Marcella Price

Cousin Norma Jean always with open arms of love, hospitality and compliments of praise. Oh and her special signature gift of the $2.00 bill in our Christmas card! Our deepest condolences to Pat, Paulette, Marvin James and entire Family, may your sweet angel rest in-power. We are praying for you during this special time. Your Mom, our cousin Norma Jean, was so very special to us. No matter the lengthy separation of time or distance Norma Jean always made us feel special, loved and important as she would affectionately call us (Pat's Girls). We will genuinely miss her presence but we know her spirit of love will always surround us. Extending our prayers and Love, Pat's Girls (Cheryl, Marcella (Marcie), Pamela (Pam) and Andrea(Dre) and our entire Family. 🙏🏽❤️
06/25/2025

Reginald And Cheryl Green

Our thoughts and prayers are with the family at this difficult time may the Lord comfort you always Reginald and Cheryl Green
06/25/2025

Mr.&Mrs. Charles (Gloria) Brown

To the Family of Norman Jean Braxton. To her Children and Family we sent our condolences and prayers to you all during this difficult time may the Minister of peace and love comfort your hearts with peace, as you hold beautiful memories of your loved one. Norma Jean was a wonderful person her personality spoke volume, she will be truly missed. Yours In Christ, Pastor Charles & Gloria Brown
06/25/2025

Lonnie & Vanessa Smith

Blessings and love to the family. Cousin Norma Jean loved her family. She always wanted visitors and extended family to feel welcomed. May you be comforted knowing that she leaves a lot of good memories and love. You are in our prayers. Lonnie & Vanessa Smith
06/24/2025

Candice pankey
06/23/2025

Tammy Shelton

Prayers and love to Normas children and family who she loved dearly. I'm so sorry and sad , one of my best friends gone. There will never be another Norma in my life. She is with her God whom she loved so she is good.
06/23/2025

Phyllis Randall

My prayers and deepest sympathy to the family! May you be comforted in knowing that she is in a better place. She was such a a sweet person and will be greatly missed
06/23/2025

Tonya Mosley

I remember Ms. Norma as a little girl. Paulette and I have been friends since 1st grade. I was always in Harvey at their house. Such a quiet spirit. I always thought she was so cool being a nurse. God definitely gained an angel, rest in Heavenly Peace
06/23/2025

Lennora Wright

You are going to miss. Love you 😍.
06/23/2025

Robert (Poo) Gore, Jr.

I'm so sorry for your loss. My deepest condolences to my Uncle and cousins words cannot express how saddended I am by your loss. Love & prayer, Poo
06/23/2025

Nan Curtis

Cousin Pat and Family, words cannot express the sorrow we feel in the loss of our beloved cousin Norma Jean. So much we can say about her, but, one thing we can say she was a Godly woman who lived a life that reflected God's character and principles. She loved and cherished her family. I can still hear her laughter. We have so many good memories to carry in our hearts of her. She truly will be missed. May God's Grace and Mercy carry you through this difficult time. Love, Cousin Nan and Family.
06/23/2025

Sondra Farmer

My condolences to my cousins on the loss of an unforgettable woman, she will be missed. Prayers and my love to you all.
06/23/2025

Dawn Smith Parnell

Ms. NormaJean was an exceptional lady and will be greatly missed.
06/22/2025

James & Delena

Our thoughts and prayers are with Pat Walker and the Braxton family during this time. We know that God will comfort and hold you like only he can. With love James & Delena
06/22/2025

LinniePoo

I am truly sorry for your loss, and I want to extend my deepest condolences to your family during this incredibly difficult time. My Aunt Norma was an extraordinary person, and I will forever treasure the beautiful memories we created together. Her delightful sense of humor and the love she poured into her delicious homemade German Chocolate Cakes always brought warmth to our hearts. The kindness and wise words she shared provided comfort during rugged moments in my pursuit of educational goals. Please know that you are all in our thoughts, and we are here to support. Love Always, Your nieces Linnie Poo and Lacee
06/22/2025

Diana Nae manns carson

Mrs. Norma Jean had a sweet presence about her . Always smiling when I word see her ! May GOD CONTINUE TO BLESS HER FAMILY 💔
06/21/2025

Doretha Hicks

"Gone but never forgotten" Your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure. Love Nolan & Doretha Hicks
06/21/2025

LinniePoo

Cherishing the memories of Aunt Norma, who would rise early to lovingly prepare breakfast for all the kids and get us ready for Sunday school, brings us a profound sense of comfort. Her warmth and joyful spirit illuminated our lives in countless ways, and these cherished recollections help keep her essence alive, allowing us to celebrate the beautiful life she led, even in her absence. As we gather to reminisce, we find solace in the deep connections we've forged and the unwavering love that continues to bind us together. Please know that you are all in my thoughts, and I am here to support you all through this challenging time. Love Always , Your Niece Linnie Poo