Norma Jean Gillette passed away on December 20, 2012 at Holland hospital from pneumonia. Norma was born November 14, 1928 in Detroit, Michigan. She received her Bachelor of Science and her Masters degree from Wayne State University. Upon graduation, Norma taught modern dance for ten years. After having two children, Norma returned to the Detroit Public School System where she taught kindergarten for eighteen years.

Norma met her husband, Rene Clement Gillette while he was attending dental school at the University of Detroit. They were married August 19, 1950. Her two children, William Gillette and Michele Zinn, and her three grandchildren, Jennifer Gillette, Steven Gillette and Angelina Gillette, survive her.

Norma enjoyed spending summers at the family cottage that she and Rene built in 1959 on the lakeshore in Fennville, and meeting with friends and family at Oval Beach. In the winter months, Norma spent time at her Florida residence in North Port.

Norma had a passion for horses and enjoyed trail riding. Norma continued to own horses throughout her life, and had an Arabian that she enjoyed watching compete in her later years. She also loved to travel, both domestically and abroad.

Norma was a long time active member of the Saugatuck Douglas Garden Club as well as the Allamanda Garden Club and Venice Garden Club in Florida.

A private family service will be held at the Acacia Park Cemetery in February. A memorial service in remembrance of Norma’s life will be held at her Michigan residence on April 6, 2013 at 2:00.

Memorial donations may be made to the Allamanda Garden Club, North Port, Florida.