Norma Gonzalez 1949-2025

She was born on May 16, 1949, in Arecibo, Puerto Rico, to the late Crispin and Maria Gonzalez.

Norma was a graduate of Youngstown East High School and Youngstown State University and was a dedicated employee for the Ohio Department of Transportation.

Norma was the embodiment of kindness, generosity, love and grace. She had a heart that knew no limits, always putting the needs of others before her own, never seeking recognition or praise. Whether it was family, friends or complete strangers, she gave freely of her time, energy and love. Her selflessness was not an act but in fact who she was. Norma leaves behind a family who adored her, friends who were blessed to walk alongside her and a community that was better with her presence. Her legacy is woven into the lives she touched, and she touched many. Though we grieve the loss of her light in our lives, we are forever grateful for the time we shared with her.

Norma was preceded in death by her parents, Crispin and Maria Gonzalez; and her brother, Chris Gonzalez.

She is survived by her loving sister, Rose Bell and brother-in-law, Gary; sister-in-law, Leticia Gonzalez; nieces, Christina Jeffers and husband, Glenn, Carla Leonow and husband, Matt, and Lydia Gonzalez; nephews, Christopher David Gonzalez and wife, Kristianna, Benny Esparra and wife, Natalia, David Esparra and wife, Olga, and Marcos Gonzalez; godson, Lucas Gonzalez and wife, Bobbi; and many great-nieces and -nephews whom she viewed as children of her own, Brittany Hastwell and husband, Jeff, Courtney Jeffers, Kian Gonzalez, Adriana Gonzalez, Alonah Gonzalez, Denali Esparra, Ignacio Esparra, Emilio Esparra, Maria Hastwell and Leo Hastwell.

She is also lovingly remembered by her special uncles, Juan Gonzalez and Pablo Gonzalez; best friend, Joann Cousin-Willis; and many cousins, extended family and friends.

Though our hearts are heavy with grief, we rejoice knowing Norma now rests in the presence of our Savior. In the hearts of her family, she will always be remembered with her signature quote to all “I love you more.”

The family will receive relatives and friends from 5 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 4, 2025, at the Rossi Brothers and Lellio Funeral Home, 4442 South Ave., Boardman.

Funeral services will be held at 9:15 a.m. Friday, Sept. 5, 2025, at the funeral home, followed by a 10 a.m. Mass of Christian Burial at St. Dominic Church, 77 Lucius Ave., Youngstown.

Family and friends are encouraged to offer prayers for the family and support by visiting the Book of Memories at www.rossifunerals.com.

(special notice)