Margaret Ann Norsworthy1929 — 2018

On June 15, 2018, Margaret Ann Norsworthy died peacefully, due to complications from Alzheimer's disease. She was 89.

She was born Margaret Ann Bowen on Jan. 15, 1929, in Tupelo, Mississippi, to loving parents, Forest and Albert Bowen. The youngest of three children, she grew up in Tupelo, where she developed her love for music. In 1946, she was admitted to the University of Mississippi, where she earned a bachelor's degree in music education. But her degree was a side note. Ole Miss is where her love story began.

She met Jase Norsworthy while playing bridge in the student union. That card game, and the magnificent romance that quickly ensued, would ultimately blossom into an inspiring love story that lasted 68 years and produced four children, 10 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren (and one on the way).

Margaret Ann and Jase made their first home in Jackson, Mississippi. But in 1952, with a baby in tow, they courageously moved to Montana to explore new opportunities. They survived on the bare necessities while living in Circle and Glendive before settling in Billings in November of 1953. By every account, they had found their "home."

The community they fell in love with reciprocated with enthusiasm. Margaret Ann found profound joy in cultivating and nurturing friendships. Through her marriage, and the cherished relationships that blossomed from it, she became an active member of the community, continually expanding her loving influence through volunteerism and the host of valued friends she met along the way. From 1954 until her death, she was a committed member of First Congregational Church, where she worshipped until her declining health made it too difficult to attend services.

With every accomplishment she achieved, every act of kindness she displayed and every friendship she nurtured, Margaret Ann's life was characterized by her loving spirit and kind, southern charm. Those who knew her have lost a giving heart, a loyal friend, an inspiring love and a passionate soul.

Margaret Ann is survived by her devoted husband, Jase of Billings; her children, Lynn Norsworthy of Boston, Sally (Harold) Roberts of Cherry Hills Village, Colorado, Amy Norsworthy and Jase (Karen) Norsworthy, Jr., both of Billings; grandchildren Amy, Megan, Katie, Jase, Molly, Emily, Maggie, Owen, Charlie and Addison; five great-grandchildren; and seven nieces and nephews.

The family would like to offer their most sincere appreciation to the wonderful staff of Fischer Cottage at St. John's Lutheran Ministries for the loving care they provide every day.

A memorial service will be at 11 a.m. Tuesday, June 26, at Billings First Congregational Church, 310 N. 27th St. Michelotti-Sawyers is assisting with arrangements. Cremation has taken place.

Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer's Association Montana Chapter, 3010 11th Ave. N., Billings, MT 59101 (or at Alz.org); Billings First Congregational Church Endowment Fund, 310 N. 27th St., Billings, MT 59101; or an organization of your choice.