Norma Faye Phillips

LIFE’’S REFLECTIONS

Norma Faye Bryant Phillips

Norma Faye Bryant, a cherished soul born on September 5, 1938, to Purl and Dora May Bryant, embarked on her journey of life in the vibrant city of Denver, Colorado. As the second of six children, Norma formed deep bonds of love and camaraderie, particularly with her cousin Gloria, with whom she shared a bed during their childhood years. Together, they set the foundations of a lifelong friendship that would last through thick and thin.Norma's spirit was nurtured by her education in the Denver Public Schools, where she attended Gilpin Elementary, Cole Jr. High, and Manual High School. Her early working years at Buster’s Barbeque, alongside her Uncle Emmet, showcased her resilience and dedication. She ventured through diverse roles, including work at Anderson Wrecking and Mathematica, ultimately dedicating over 25 years as a counseling secretary for Aurora Public Schools. Norma's entrepreneurial spirit shown brightly during tax season, as she balanced her roles as a preparer and later business owner until her well-earned retirement at the age of 82.A beacon of faith, Norma found her spiritual home in New Hope Baptist Church and later at Faith Tabernacle, where her devotion flourished. It was there that she met her beloved husband, Carl, and contributed her talents as a singer in the choir, an organizer of numerous community events, and an accountant. Her faith journey continued at Greater Faith Worship Center, where she remained a steadfast member until her passing.In a life filled with love, Norma married Charles Broussard in 1955, welcoming six beautiful children: Toni, Richard, Kathy, Linda, Leonard, and Norman. This joyful union lasted 27 years until the heart-wrenching loss of Charles in 1982. Norma’s heart found new purpose when she married Carl Phillips on January 3, 1986, joining their families with love and warmth.Beyond her roles as wife and mother, Norma was a true artisan at heart. She poured her love into cooking—her turkey and dressing and homemade enchiladas crafted with care were family favorites. Her creativity bloomed through sewing, flower arrangements, and creating a vibrant garden that reflected her joyful spirit. Celebrations of every kind came alive in her home, marked by festive gatherings, elaborate birthday parties, and the much-anticipated Easter egg hunts that delighted children and adults alike. Her affinity for games, from dominoes to bridge, fostered laughter and lasting memories with family and friends.Norma nurtured an adventurous spirit, traveling and cruising, and fostering connections at the annual family reunions in Omaha. These gatherings, rich with joy and nostalgia, celebrated the sprawling family legacy of the Dozens of Cousins, one of the largest families in America. A devoted sports enthusiast, she was an avid Bronco fan who proudly wore her Bronco gear. She also admired the skills of Patrick Mahomes and following the tennis prowess of Venus and Serena Williams with fervor.Norma leaves behind a profound legacy of love and memories, surviving through her husband Carl Phillips; her beloved children Toni, Richard (Ruth), Kathy, Linda (Dan), Leonard (Phaedra), Troy (Francine), Clarence, and Carlton; and her dear sister Renee. Her heart touched the lives of 25 grandchildren and step-grandchildren, 36 great-grandchildren and step-grandchildren, and 4 great-great-grandchildren. Norma is now reunited with her first husband Charles, her youngest son Norman, her parents, Dora and Purl, her brothers James, Billy, and Earl, her sister Anna, her nephew Justn, and a great great grandchild Jayce.