Norma Eileen (Ray) Coonfield, a resident of The Pines since November 2017, passed away on February 27 at Northeast Regional Medical Center surrounded by her family. She was born June 29, 1932, in rural Novinger. Her parents were the late Leland O. Ray and Hazel M. (Maggart) Ray. Norma attended school in Novinger, graduating in 1950 as valedictorian of her class. She began classes at Truman State University in 1950. Known to be an excellent student who worked hard, she tied with another student for first in the class. While a student, she also worked on campus for Dr. Kauzlarich.

She married Merle E. Coonfield on November 23, 1950, in Kirksville. She completed one academic year at Truman, choosing to leave in 1951 to begin her family. She was the mother of Janet M. (Coonfield) Bunch and Alan R. Coonfield. Following her husband’s death in 1980, she returned to the workforce after 30 years, joining the Medical Records staff at Northeast Regional Medical Center. She held this position for about twenty years. In retirement, her life was filled with spending time with her family, attending school sports and other events of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and supporting her community by volunteering for Novinger Renewal. A huge animal lover, she also enjoyed caring for her pets.

She is survived by her daughter, Janet Bunch (Donnie) of rural Kirksville; her son, Alan Coonfield (Shelia) of rural Kirksville; four grandchildren, Robin R. Carter (Rick) of rural Kirksville, Timothy A. Coonfield (Kristy) of Kearney, Mo., Melissa K. Vrban (Mike) of North Liberty, Iowa, and Daniel R. Coonfield of Iowa; five great grandchildren, Dawn N. McVay of Kirksville, Ashley R. Coonfield of Springfield, Cole R. Carter of rural Kirksville, and Sydney K. and Grant M. Vrban of North Liberty ; along with several nieces and nephews.

Norma was preceded in death by her husband; her parents; her father and mother-in-law, W.T. and Mae Coonfield; her siblings, Dorva (Ray) Capps, Jerry Ray, and Phyllis (Ray) Middleton; both of her brothers-in-law; niece and nephew; and dear friends.

She was cremated as she requested. She didn’t want a formal funeral, so her family is hosting a celebration of life on Sunday, March 21, at 2-4 p.m. in the Novinger Community Center. Family and friends are encouraged to come and share memories of Norma and honor her life.

Those who wish to make a memorial gift are asked to give to the Alzheimer’s Association. Travis Noe Funeral Home is assisting the family and memorial gifts made payable to the Association can be brought to the celebration, left at Travis-Noe, or mailed to the Association.