Growing up on a farm instilled in Norman a deep appreciation for hard work and self-sufficiency. He began his career in agriculture by farming alongside his father and later worked for his grandfather, T.C. Veal. They farmed land in the Norman, Davis, Hennepin, and Rosedale areas. Eventually, he purchased a farm west of the Joy school, where he and Millie raised their two daughters, Brenda and Sondra. Norman continued to farm and ranch in this location for many years, prior to his retirement.

Norman’s educational journey began at the Woodland School, west of Davis. He often reminisced about his time there, particularly the day the school caught fire, which led to students and teachers saving books by throwing them out of the windows.

Norman is survived by his two daughters, Brenda Brazell and husband Troy of Yukon, and Sondra Gilbert of Wynnewood; four grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; as well as one sister, Patsy Riley of Oklahoma City.

In addition to his wife and parents, Norman was preceded in death by brothers, Hubert, Raymond, and John F. Gilbert; and sisters, Inez Coffey, June Hickman, Delcine Young, and Clara Wallace.

Memorial services for Norman be held 2:00 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 22, at the Joy Baptist Church, with Brother Tom Whitaker officiating.

In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully asks that memorial contributions be made, in Norman’s name, to a charity of your choice.

Services are entrusted to Hale’s Funeral Home of Davis. Online condolences may be offered at halesfuneralhomes.com.