Norma Jean (Parish) Buckner

Norma Jean (Parish) Buckner, born August 17, 1927, passed away peacefully at home with her daughters at her side December 5, 2015.

She was born in The Dalles, OR to Fred and Minnie Parish. They moved back to Billings when she was a small child.

She graduated from Billings Senior High in 1945. After graduation she moved to Bremerton, WA with three girlfriends to work in the Navy Yards during WWII at which time she met a sailor there whom she had met previously at a dance at Lake Elmo. They were married two weeks later, in that reunion they stayed together for 62 years. After the war they settled in Billings raising three daughters.

One of her many talents was sewing. She was an excellent seamstress and made all the girls cloths for many years. She was sought after for her talent and even had her own clothing labels made with her name.

She loved sports playing softball in high school, later in life she enjoyed bowling and golf. Her true passion was tennis. She started taking lessons at Pioneer Park at age 40 and played faithfully until she was 80. She was a member of a Senior Tennis League playing in several tournaments in various cities.

Mother had a deep love for her family and will always be remembered for her kindness, fun loving way and sense of humor.

She's preceded in death by her husband, Z.A. (Buz) and daughter Freddee Ann Wing.

Survivors include sister Bette Wiley of Laurel, daughters Linda McKee of Billings and Kellee Prentice (Rex) of Florida. Grandchildren, Mark (Darcy) McKee, Brett (Staci) McKee, Justin Wessel, Stacy (Shawn) Purcell. Great grandchildren, Amanda McKee, Reese and Katelyn McKee, Alexis and Victoria Purcell.

Cremation has taken place and at her request no services.

A memorial service will be held in the spring for family and friends.

We want to thank Rocky Mountain Hospice for their kind and loving care. A special thanks to Raylynn, Naomi and Terese, we couldn't have managed without them.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Rocky Mountain Hospice, 2110 Overland Ave., Billings, MT 59102.