Norma Jean (Howard) Schueler Smock

Norma Jean (Howard) Schueler Smock of Battle Creek, MI





Norma, age 87, died Saturday morning, December 7, 2013 at her residence, following a short illness and surrounded by her loving family.


Norma, the daughter of Elmer W. and Cecile (Soules) Howard, was born on November 25, 1926 in Grand Rapids, MI and was a 1944 graduate of Battle Creek Central High School. During the World War II, her family took in boarders who were looking for a place to stay where they could be near their loved ones either stationed at Fort Custer or recovering at Percy Jones Hospital. In 1944, Norma began her career at Bell Telephone Company that spanned 41 years of faithful service, first as an operator and finally, as a clerical worker. In addition, she cared for many years for both her disabled mother and sister. Norma loved to read, knit, watch old movies, garden, walk dogs or be with her family and friends.


In 1952, Norma was united in marriage to the late, Russell John Schueler. Together they raised four daughters, Schelle (Ed) Cagney of Scotts, MI, Stacey Schueler, Stephanie Moga and Starr (Bob) Minier, all of Battle Creek. She was a lifelong member of the Church of God, where for many years she played the piano and the organ. In one of her many trips to a Church Camp meeting, she met Carl Smock, whom she married in 1997. She is survived by all four daughters; her grandson, Hunter Moga and her husband, Carl. Norma was preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Nancy Burke and two brothers, Jack and Walter Howard.


The Memorial Service to celebrate Norma's life will be held on Saturday, December 14th at 2:00 p.m. at the North Avenue Church of God, 1079 North Avenue, Battle Creek, with Rev. Jeff Eckman, Pastor, officiating. Friends will be received on Saturday from Noon until service time at the Church. Family and friends are invited to continue Norma's life celebration with a time of fellowship and a luncheon immediately following the Memorial Service in the Church's Fellowship Hall. A Graveside Service will be held on Monday, December 16th at 11:00 a.m. at Floral Lawn Memorial Gardens-Chapel. Memorial contributions in Norma's honor may be directed to Heartland Hospice, 6126 Lovers Lane, Portage, MI 49002.