Charmain Joan "Char" Norman

Charmain Joan “Char” Norman, née Hayes, age 71, passed away suddenly on March 14, 2026. She was the devoted wife of the late Robert L. Norman. Char was the cherished daughter of the late Joan M. (née Barnes) and the late Donald P. Hayes. She is survived by her sisters Maureen (the late Jack) O’Sullivan, Susan (Craig) Wurzer, Colleen (the late Sean) Walsh, Kathleen (the late Delano) Lacy, and Bridget (the late Joseph) Fendler. She was preceded in death by her brother Donald Hayes and her sister Kelly Hayes. A proud aunt to 24 nieces and nephews, Char was the eldest of eight children, a role she embraced with pride and care throughout her life.

Born and raised in Oak Forest, Illinois, Char enlisted in the United States Air Force, where she served with distinction and retired as a Master Sergeant. Her military service shaped her into the strong, resilient woman she remained for the rest of her days. After leaving the Air Force, she continued her commitment to helping others by working for the state of Nevada, where she spent many years supporting young women with developmental disabilities through patient, compassionate care and guidance.

Char lived in Las Vegas for thirty years, a city she grew to love, before returning to be closer to family. She shared a full and vibrant life with her husband Robert, finding joy in travel, exploring new cultures, cheering faithfully for her beloved Chicago Cubs, and trying her luck at the casino or playing bingo. A true green thumb, she created a beautiful backyard oasis filled with plants and flowers that became a welcoming gathering place for those she loved. Above all, family was the center of Char’s world. She remained deeply connected to her siblings and took genuine interest in the lives of her many nieces and nephews, celebrating their milestones, offering support in difficult times, and making sure each one felt deeply loved.

Charmain J. Norman will be remembered for her strength, kindness, and unwavering devotion to her family. Her memory will live on in the many lives she touched and in the stories and traditions she left behind.