Norma Jean Valverde

It is with heavy hearts that the family of Norma Jean Valverde, 61, of George West, Texas announce her unexpected passing on October 14, 2024, at Memorial Hermann Hospital in Houston. Norma was lovingly surrounded by her family and beloved friends when she went home to be with the Lord. 

Norma was born February 13, 1963, in Beeville, Texas, to Louis and Minerva (Ybanez) Valverde. She was a proud 1981 graduate of George West High School and received an Associate's Degree from Coastal Bend College in Beeville. She was a faithful member of St. George Catholic Church. Growing up, Norma was a loving, caring babysitter and cared for children. This led her to devote her life to making a difference in the lives of youth. She dedicated 20 years of employment with GWISD as a cherished paraprofessional educating children with learning disabilities.

Norma’s kindness, humor and generosity are qualities that made her a beloved community member. Family and friends held a special place in her heart, and she treasured her relationships deeply.

She enjoyed going to concerts, listening to music and throwing a grito every now and then. Her enjoyment also was taking the children with learning disabilities on field trips to Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch. Before she became ill, she enjoyed baking and trying new recipes. She learned how to bake bread and other various foods from a dear friend who was a Master Chef who worked at many well-known ranches. She enjoyed doing word search puzzles, watching Hoda & Jenna and The Voice. Every holiday without fail, she would send holiday messages to all her friends and family. 

Norma will be missed by her pet dog “Pepper” whom she dearly loved and cared for. When in the hospital, she always asked how Pepper was doing.

Norma was preceded in death by her father, Louis Valverde.

Survivors include her beloved mother, Minerva Valverde of George West; her sister, Letisia “Leti” Valverde of George West; two brothers, Jorge “Corky” and Jesse Valverde, both of George West; as well as a niece and three nephews, four great-nieces and four great-nephews; and longtime companion, Liborio "Lee" Becerra, who she deeply loved and cared for. 

A Rosary will be recited at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, November 16, at St. George Catholic Church with a Memorial Mass to be celebrated at 11 o’clock. Father Romeo Salinas will officiate. A reception will follow in the parish hall.

An inurnment ceremony will be held at a later date.