Norma J. Sutton

On June 11, 1951, Norma Jean Sutton entered the world as a bright light to her parents, Harry Sam and Beatrice Sam, and to what would become a large, lively family of eight children. Growing up on the South Side of Chicago, Norma learned early the values of resilience, education, and community — values she carried throughout her life.

Norma was the fourth-born child, preceded in death by her siblings Charles Robinson, Thomas Earl Robinson, Gladys Marie Bridges, and Michael Keith Sam. She is lovingly remembered by her surviving siblings Beverly Jo Hammond, Joyce Yvonne Calvin, and Ronald Eric Sam, as well as a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, and extended family who adored her.

Education was one of Norma’s greatest passions. After graduating from Chicago Vocational High School, she went on to earn a B.A. in Political Science and later a Juris Doctor from Loyola University Chicago, along with a Master of Public Administration from Governors State University. These accomplishments laid the foundation for a remarkable professional journey.

Norma’s career spanned corporate, nonprofit, and government sectors. She served as an attorney, compliance leader, corporate counsel, and educator. Her work included roles with the Illinois Department of Central Management Services, Zurich North America, ebix.com, Digital Equipment Corporation, Motorola, and the Community Economic Development Law Project. She also served as an Arbitrator for several alternative dispute resolution forums and taught university-level courses for more than two decades. Her students and colleagues admired her brilliance, professionalism, and generosity of spirit.

Norma’s personal life was filled with love and purpose. While working at Sears, she met Gregory Sutton. They married and welcomed their son, Edward Michael Sutton, on January 11, 1973. Though the marriage ended, their shared love for Edward remained a lifelong bond. Norma poured her heart into motherhood, and later embraced her daughter‑in‑law, Sharon Sutton, with warmth and pride.

Faith was a cornerstone of Norma’s life. She was a long‑standing member of Trinity United Church of Christ (Chicago), where she served faithfully in the Security Ministry. She also dedicated many years of service to WTTW’s Advisory Board, contributing her insight and leadership to one of Chicago’s most cherished cultural institutions.

Norma loved to explore the world. Her travels took her to South Africa, Dubai, Venice, Milan, London, Paris, and throughout the Caribbean. She embraced new cultures, new experiences, and the joy of seeing life beyond familiar borders.

After a long and distinguished career, Norma retired from Camelot Illinois in 2023. In her final years, she faced Parkinson’s disease, dementia, and arthritis with courage, grace, and unwavering faith.

The scripture chosen for her service — “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” — reflects the life she lived: strong, purposeful, loving, and steadfast.

Norma leaves behind her beloved son Edward, her cherished daughter‑in‑law Sharon, her siblings, and a community of family, friends, colleagues, and former students who will forever carry her memory in their hearts.

Her legacy is one of intellect, service, compassion, and resilience — a legacy that will continue to inspire all who knew her.