Norma Jean Carter, 73, a lifelong resident of Haines City, FL, went to be with the Lord on May 1, 2025, at her residence. She was born on September 3, 1951, in Caraway, Arkansas, to William Ray Ford and Corine Young. Norma worked diligently throughout her life in the hospitality industry as a housekeeper, and also in the local citrus industry as a packer. She was of the Baptist faith. Norma loved her kids and grandkids. 

Norma enjoyed the simple pleasures in life. She loved watching movies, browsing yard sales, and shopping at consignment stores. Known for her sense of humor and down-to-earth nature, she brought laughter and joy to those around her.

She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Corine; and her sisters, Mary Brown, Patsy Taylor, and Betty Carpenter. Norma is survived by her sons, Eugene Carter and Wayne Carter, both of Haines City, FL; her daughter, Wanda Phillips and husband Pat of Haines City, FL; her brother, Billy Smith of Winter Haven, FL; and her sister, Charlotte McCoy of Laurel Hill, FL. She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren: Justin Carter, Levi Carter, Katlyn Roup, Dustin Carter, Lacie Carter, Blake Phillips, Garrett Phillips, and Paisley Phillips; as well as four great-grandchildren.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, May 7, at 1:00 p.m., followed by a funeral service at 2:00 p.m., all at Oak Ridge Funeral Care in Haines City, FL, with Pastor Mike Foster officiating. Norma will be laid to rest at Evergreen Cemetery in Davenport, FL.