Senate Resolution No. 564 BY: Senator PARKER MOURNING the death of Norma May Hawthorne, devoted mother and grandmother, and dedicated member of her community WHEREAS, There are certain outstanding members of our community who, through their selfless commitment and dedication, have served to better the quality of life in our community and have had a measurable positive impact on the lives of its residents; Norma May Hawthorne was one such individual; and WHEREAS, It is with profound sorrow and deep regret that this Legislative Body records the passing of Norma May Hawthorne on Sunday, January 26, 2025, noting the significance of her purposeful life and accomplishments; and WHEREAS, Norma May Hawthorne, fondly known as "Normie," was born on April 10, 1942, in Priory, St. Ann, Jamaica, West Indies to the late Eugenia Lowe Fitten; she was raised alongside her siblings Horace Smith (Buds), Renford Hawthorne (Renny), Sonia Ramsay, Phyllis Walters (Blossom), and Aubrey Fitten (Blues); and WHEREAS, Norma May Hawthorne received her education in Priory, St. Ann, before moving to Kingston, Jamaica, in her late teens to embark on her adult journey; and WHEREAS, While in Kingston, Norma May Hawthorne worked in the hospitality industry as bartender before transitioning into a career as a building maintenance technician; and WHEREAS, In 1992, Norma May Hawthorne migrated to the United States, settling in Brooklyn, New York, where she found her true calling as a home attendance in the healthcare field - a role she embraced with love and dedication; and WHEREAS, Norma May Hawthorne was a spirited, energetic and outspoken woman who radiated warmth and care; she had a deep love for playing dominos, attending church, and socializing with family and friends; and WHEREAS, While she was passionate about many things, above all, her greatest joy and proudest achievement was her five children whom she loved unconditionally; she was a strong and nurturing mother, instilling in them resilience, tenacity, courage and determination; and WHEREAS, Norma May Hawthorne leaves to cherish her memory her five children, Marva Boswell (Sheryl), Lenox Hall, Lavern Hall, Carlene Broodie and Alecia (Lisa) Broodie; two brothers, Horace (Buds) and Aubrey (Blues); six grandchildren, Lennox Jr., Tiaany, Simone, Roshane, Ackeem, Ashley; two great-grandchildren; and a host of relatives and friends; and WHEREAS, Norma May Hawthorne's infinite selflessness and benevolence will shine on through her family's vivid and happy memories; her insight and strength will forever serve as a beacon of love, light and hope to the countless lives she touched; and WHEREAS, Armed with a humanistic spirit and imbued with a sense of compassion, Norma May Hawthorne leaves behind a legacy which will long endure the passage of time and will remain as a comforting memory to all who were privileged to have known and loved such an amazing woman; she will be deeply missed and truly merits the grateful tribute of this Legislative Body; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to mourn the death of Norma May Hawthorne, and to express its deepest condolences to her family; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to the family Norma May Hawthorne.