Norma Jean Hayes

Norma was born on March 15, 1931, in Pontiac, Michigan to Addie and John Hayes .  She was the 12th of 13 siblings, preceded in death by her sister Evelyn Daye, Louis Hayes, and Lillian Newcomb.  Norma Jean had eight other siblings that died as small children.  One living brother William D. Hayes whom resides in Los Angeles, California.

Norma Jean Hayes transitioned on October 25, 2019 at her home in Portland, Oregon.  She was with her daughter Debra Streeter and a close family friend Annie Jackson at the time of her passing

Addie M. Hayes came to Oregon in the late 1930’s to fulfill a desire to become a member of the Apostolic Faith Church. She return to Pontiac, Michigan to bring her children back to Oregon. That’s when the journey began for Norma Jean in Portland, Oregon

Norma Moved to Portland Oregon as a child in 1941 with her mother and siblings. She attended Portland public elementary school. She attended Jane Adams and Washington High School were she graduated.

Norma earned her associates degree at Portland Community College and earned her Registered Nursing Degree from Emanuel School of Nursing at Emanuel Hospital.  She was always a trailblazer and inspiration for others.   Norma was one of the first African American nurses to graduate from the nursing program at Emanuel.  She practiced nursing for many years. During the time of her Nursing she opened an Adult Foster Care Named Hayes Home Care in Portland, Oregon to care for her mother and other’s.  After retirement Norma served as a contract nurse through Multnomah County working for Aging Services.  She loved working with geriatrics.  Norma was an advocate for the American Diabetic Association.  She was a tireless warrior educating the African American community on the impact and prevention of diabetes.

During her 50-year tenure as a registered nurse, Norma received several awards and recognitions. “Her natural gift was always serving people which was exemplified through mentoring and being preceptor to many nurses, sharing the wisdom and experience that she gained over the years.  She was very conscientious in serving her patients with dignity, respect and true compassion.

Norma is survived by her son Steven Williams and her daughter Debra Streeter, Zelner Streeter Son-in law, Granddaughters Regina Warren, Ronette Waters , Raelyn Harris , Jason Williams, and Betina Williams, and a host of great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and friends.

Norma was a loving Grandmother and Great Grandmother. She attending sporting events, graduations, and staying very active in their lives.  She was a demonstration of strength and unconditional love to her grandchildren. And loved by many.

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