Norma Jean Briggs

Norma Jean Briggs, age 87, of Ashland, passed away Thursday, April 13, 2023 at Brookwood Place at Brethren Care Village. Norma was born December 13, 1935 in Woodsfield, Ohio, the daughter of the late James W. and Kathryn (Kahrig) Briggs. Norma was a 1953 graduate of Ashland High School where she graduated with honors and was the class Valedictorian. Following high school Norma attended the Samaritan Hospital Nursing Program and received her Registered Nursing Degree. She later attended Kent State University for 2 years, Marquette University for 2 years, UCLA for 2 years, the University of Hawaii for 2 years, and received her Doctorate in Physiology from the University of Arizona. Norma was a Professor at the University of Wisconsin- Eau Claire, WI., where she taught Nursing. She retired in 1997 and returned to Ashland. Norma was a very unique, intelligent, strong willed individual that had a soft side. She enjoyed monthly luncheons with her 1955 Samaritan Hospital fellow nursing graduates. She was an avid sports fan including the Green Bay Packers Football and Cleveland Indians Baseball. Norma enjoyed oil painting.

Survivors include her brother, Jim (Donna) Briggs; nieces, Tonia (Bill) Armstrong, Stephanie (Todd) Crone, Michelle (Johnny) Lima and Stacey (Scott) Dillard; along with several great nieces and newphews and great great neices and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Norma was preceded in death by her brother, Charles Briggs; sister, Barbara Whisler; and nephew, Jeffrey Briggs.

Funeral services will be held at Heyl Funeral Home on Wednesday, April 19, 2023 at 2:30 PM with Father Rod Kreidler officiating. Friends may visit with the family one hour prior to services at the funeral home. Burial will be at Ashland County Memorial Park. Online condolences may be left for the family.

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