AUBURN – Norma Roy passed away peacefully at 4 p.m. on Monday, Aug. 22, 2022, surrounded by her loving children by her side, after a brief illness. In her final days she was constantly visited by family and friends who loved her.

Norma was born on May 13, 1936 in Chisholm, to Blanche Dube DeSanctis and Antonio DeSanctis. She grew up with three siblings, Leo, Vera, and Anthony with all of whom she shared a special bond. She attended Lewiston High School where she was a cheerleader, graduating in 1954.

Norma met her husband, Jean “Pop” Roy, at a dance in 1955 and they were married later that year on Aug. 13, 1955. They raised four children together: Debra, Cindy, Tammy, and John. Norma lost the love her of life when Pop passed away in June of 1986.

Norma was an avid bowler and golfer. She competed in local bowling leagues and golf tournaments. She was a member at Prospect Hill golf club for many years. She taught many of her grandchildren to golf and often beat them. Some of her grandchildren’s most treasured memories are from golfing with Norma.

She was a dedicated New England sports fan, never missing a game when the Patriots Celtics, Red Sox or Bruins were playing. She was rewarded later in life with many exciting championships that she shared with her family.

Norma embraced her calling as a homemaker, mother, and grandmother. She was a great cook, her family was especially fond of her hamburg soup and “Grandma’s salad”. She doted on her 15 grandchildren preparing home cooked meals whenever they visited.

Norma had a keen sense of humor which she passed on to everyone in her family. She was always quick with a joke and a laugh. She retained her sarcastic wit until the end.

Above all else, Norma was devoted to her family. She cherished her time with her large family and was dedicated, kind and loving to every single person. She attended every major life event for her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, making each of them feel special and loved.

Norma is survived by her sister, Vera Marcotte and her brother, Anthony “Tenny” DeSanctis; her four children, Debra Rancourt and husband Michael, Cindy Blackman and husband Robert, Tammy Gilbert and husband Peter, John Roy and wife Erin; 15 grandchildren, Chris, Brad, Jessica, Ashley, Michelle, Chad, Kyle, Colby, Brady, Jordan, Cali, McKenzie, Madison, Marley and Maya; and 13 great-grandchildren.

She was predeceased by her mother, Blanche, her father, Antonio; her brother, Leo; and closest friend of over 60 years, Madlyn Atkins.

A celebration of life will be held from 12 to 4 p.m. on Aug. 27 at the Fortin Group Funeral Home, 217 Turner St. Auburn. Burial will be private for the family at a later date.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Androscoggin Hospice House, The Dempsey Center or the American Heart Association in Norma’s memory.

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