Norma Jean Funderburg

Graveside service for Norma Jean Funderburg, 85 year-old Weatherford resident, will be held Thursday, July 25, 2024, 11:00 A.M. at New Hope Cemetery in Meeker with Kim Messina officiating. Services are under the direction of Lockstone Funeral Home of Weatherford.

Norma went peacefully in the arms of her Lord and Savior on July 22, 2024. She was born on March 29, 1939, to Nola (Marsh) and Jacob Kyker in Washington County, Tennessee. An accomplished pianist, Norma began playing at her local church at the tender age of four. She played her instrument for her entire life. Her music gave joy and peace to those who heard her play. She recorded an album of her beautiful singing and played piano and organ for churches, school events, and various other venues. Norma was also part of a quartet that performed around Oklahoma and for a Christian radio station. Even in her last few weeks, she brought joy by playing for the residents at Oxford Springs, a place she cherished deeply. Her music gave her a God-given purpose, making her smile despite her challenges. Norma also enjoyed family time, bird watching, and watching western movies.

Norma graduated from Lamar High School in 1957, and life’s adventures took her to California. Norma Jean married Robert B. Tickle on December 2, 1965, in Indio, California. They had their two children together in Long Beach, California. Robert passed away on December 8, 1992. Norma Jean fell in love again and married Johnny Funderburg on December 24, 1996. He lifted her spirits and her music equipment, and they were happy together. Sadly, Johnny passed away on May 5, 2005.

In 1996, Norma was diagnosed with cancer. She faced this challenge with incredible grit and toughness, inspiring everyone around her with her unwavering spirit and determination. Norma had a way to make those around her smile with her sense of humor, no matter her situation.

She leaves behind her loving family: her son, David Tickle, and his girlfriend, Kim Messina, of Yukon; her daughter, Bobbi Shelton, and her husband, Joe, of Weatherford; grandchildren, Brandon Abla and his wife, Alicia, of Yukon; Taylor Hinojosa and her husband, Eloy, of Weatherford; Griffin Shelton of Ponca City; Brittney Jackson and her husband, John, of Lebanon, TN; and great-grandchildren Kilian, Declan, Rhys, and Lynlee Abla; Paisley Hill; Osker and Lennox Hinojosa; and Oaklynn Lopez.

She was preceded in death by spouse, Robert Tickle and spouse, Johnny Funderburg; her parents; brothers, Dennis, James, and Howard Kyker; and sisters, Ruby Edwards, Mabel Payne, and Velma Huisman.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the staff of Weatherford Regional Hospital for their love and compassion. Special thanks also go to the staff of Oxford Springs, which Norma affectionately called "Home." She found great comfort there, especially with “Blue” the turkey, who lifted her spirits during tough times.