She was born in South Philadelphia on January 23, 1930 and recently celebrated her 90th birthday. She lived at the same house on Cottman Avenue for almost 70 years of her life.
Norma was predeceased by her parents Pasquale & Maria Tancredi. Norma was the last surviving member of the 9 Tancredi siblings: Rachel, Rose, Pasquale, Sam, Lena, Louise, Rudy and Joe. She was also predeceased her loving husband of 58 years, Frank. She is survived by her 4 children: Bill (Mary), Sue (Joe), Frank and Michael (Liz); 10 Grandchildren (who lovingly knew her as ‘Cuckoo’): Bill (Casey), Katie Anne, Matthew, Megan, Colleen (Jason), Danielle (Mike), Nicole, Lexi, Gianna & Marco and 3 Great-Grandchildren: Gabi, Nicholas and Vito.
Norma graduated from St Hubert’s High School and later went to teach there (among her many teaching jobs) and was proud to see her daughter and granddaughter also graduate from the same school. Norma was the front page reporter for the Northeast Times of Philadelphia newspaper using the penname Thelma Kent. She parlayed her life-long love of the Mummers into a job at the Mummers Museum from the day it opened in 1976, first as Volunteer Coordinator and eventually the Executive Director until her retirement in 1993.
Norma loved technology, utilizing Facebook, emails and texts to keep up to date with her family and friends. She loved to play Scrabble and Quizzo. She loved the Seashore, living in Wildwood and participating in the Red Hats for many years. She loved to travel, visiting Greece, Italy, Ireland, Germany, Bermuda, San Francisco, New Orleans and not long ago Margaretville. In short, Norma loved life! She love Family, Friends & Fun!
In lieu of flowers, contributions should be made in ‘In honor/memory of Norma Gwynn’ and Gift Designation to Holy Redeemer St Joseph Manor (https://www.holyredeemer.com/Main/Donate-Now.aspx}
Cremation and funeral services will be private. A memorial service will held will be held at a later date when it is safe. Arrangements by John F. Fluehr & Sons, Inc. https://www.jffluehrandsons.com/
