Norma Rose (Wagner) Johnson

It is with deep sadness that we share the news that Norma Rose (Wagner) Johnson, better known as Norma Jean, passed away on September 11, 2024, in Suwanee, GA, at the age of 89. Born on September 8, 1935, in Columbia, PA, she carried the spirit of her birthplace throughout her life, embodying the virtues of kindness, generosity, and a deep spiritual faith.

Norma Jean dedicated much of her time to volunteering at various churches throughout her life. She enjoyed socializing and sharing her love for cooking and entertaining. Her warm presence, engaging personality and nurturing nature will be profoundly missed by all who knew her.

She leaves behind a loving family: her daughter Kathy Van Zant and son-in-law Peter, daughter Kim Clayton and son-in-law Mark, grandson James E. Marley II along with his wife Whitney, and her brother- in-law, Albert (Pat) Gerfen. Norma Jean was also a proud great-grandmother to Dante, Kaylinn, Declan, and Colston. She will be fondly remembered by many nieces and nephews. Norma Jean was preceded in death by her sons, James E. Marley, Jr. and Robert B. Marley, as well as her siblings Gloria McClair, Evelyn Stoppard, Anna Butzer, Roberta Gerfen, and Thomas Wagner.

Memorial services will be held at St. Andrew’s in the Valley, Harrisburg, PA, on November 22, 2024 at 12pm and at Christ Church Episcopal, Norcross, GA, on December 4, 2024 at 12pm. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Norma Jean’s memory can be made to Christ Church Episcopal in Norcross, GA, St. Andrew’s in the Valley Episcopal Church in Harrisburg, PA, or to the Michael J. Fox Foundation, supporting Parkinson’s research, a cause dear to her heart. Norma Jean’s legacy of love, faith, and community service will continue to inspire all who knew her.