Norma Jean McVey (McKean) peacefully passed away on August 8th, 2025.
Norma was born on July 27, 1936 in Ashland, Ohio to the late Harold and Elizabeth McKean.
She was a lifelong resident of Ashland and graduated from AHS in 1954. While in high school, she met the love of her life, Robert (Bob), and they were married in 1955. He preceded her in death in 2001. Norma worked for 45 years as a switchboard operator at Hedstrom (formerly Eagle Rubber) in Ashland, where she retired in 2000.
Norma’s pride and joy was her family. She was her happiest at family get-togethers and holidays, Christmas being her favorite. She stayed active throughout her life and enjoyed gardening, shopping, traveling to Las Vegas, and frequenting Silver Sneakers at the YMCA into her 80s. Norma was an animal lover and had several beloved dogs and cats over the years. She was also a social butterfly and had a large circle of friends who she enjoyed getting dressed up and going out with.
In addition to her parents and husband Bob, Norma was preceded in death by her brother, Raymond McKean, and sisters Carol Householder and Grace McDaniel.
Norma is survived by her son Jeff (Jennifer) McVey of Mansfield, granddaughter Hannah (Collin) Beeson of Fishers, Indiana, granddaughter Morgan (Troy) McVey of Columbus, grandson Jason (Leah) Berry of Mansfield, granddaughter Holly (Sean) Gore, great grandson Calvin Beeson, great granddaughter Nora Beeson, great grandson Brogan Smith, great grandson Kyron Berry, great grandson Owen Berry, great granddaughter Zoey-Rose Gore, and great granddaughter Ariella Gore.
A celebration of life will be held on August 23, 2025 from 1pm – 2:30pm at Harter Family Funeral Home, 308 Claremont Ave., Ashland, Ohio 44805. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Humane Society of Ashland County, or the Alzheimer’s Association.
Norma will be deeply missed by those who loved her. She was a one-of-a-kind personality and her spirit will live on through those she left behind.