Norma Jean Newingham, age 83, passed away on April 16, 2026, at Decatur Memorial Hospital. She was born in White Hall, Illinois on June 25, 1942, to Fredrick Eugene Copley and Ada Cordelia (Sanders) Copley. Norma married Charles Edward Newingham on July 1, 1963. She is survived by her husband, Charles, of Decatur, Illinois; her children, Sherrie Brown (husband Jason), Michelle Newingham, Edward Newingham, and Melissa Newberry (husband Michael); several grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and her sister, Peggy Copley.

Norma and Charles raised their children in New Berlin, Illinois. Norma loved her grandchildren and great-grandchildren very much, and to some she was known as “Bubba.” She spent her final years enjoying life with Charles while living with her daughter, Melissa, and son-in-law, Michael (who she considered a son), along with Zoey and Pippin, the family pets. She loved making coffee for Charles, eating meals prepared by Michael, traveling with Melissa, and waiting for new pictures to arrive on her Skylight frame. She loved watching Illini basketball, America’s Funniest Home Videos, the Dallas Cowboys and the Kansas City Chiefs, and the neighbors.

Norma’s life was blessed by many, and she was able to enjoy so much in her lifetime, especially the final years with Charles. Her remains were cremated and are waiting with Charles until he meets up with her again in Heaven and his remains are placed beside her. Arrangements are being made for Norma to take her dream cruise.