Norma Patricia Brown Gowie

Norma Patricia Brown daughter of the late Avis A. Green and Raphael A. Brown was born in Reach District, Jamaica on May 16, 1952. She passed away peacefully on Wednesday July 26, 2023 in Baltimore, Maryland. Norma affectionately known as “Norma B” to close family and friends, attended Reach All Age before passing her examinations for Happy Grove High School. She later relocated to Kingston, Jamaica where she began to develop her professional career. It was while visiting a family friend she heard the sounds of the sewing machine and became intrigued by it. It was that moment that Norma discovered her passion for fashion. While living in Kingston, Norma took time to perfect her craft by designing articles of clothing for close family and friends in her community. Many would compliment her work and said she had a bird’s eye for fabric. She enjoyed making fashionable couture gowns. One of her biggest moments came when someone referred her as a seamstress to Andrea’s Fashion Boutique, which was owned by the mother of renowned actress Cheryl Lee Ralph. She continued her employment at Andrea’s until she migrated to the United States in 1987. Norma’s love for fashion only intensified once she migrated to the states. This drove her to open her very own boutique “Norma B’s Creation" where she provided services to the DMV. She also worked for various boutiques such as; M’Jourdelle, David’s Bridal and Betsy Robinson (until she retired in 2021). Unfortunately she could not stay away from her love of sewing. Not long after retirement she returned as a part time seamstress at Betsy Robinson. Norma had the opportunity to design gowns for celebrities such as; daughter of NBA player Muggsy Bogues, Giselle Bryant, Tammy Rivera, and the list goes on. Other than her undying love for fashion, Norma loved to travel and enjoyed spending quality time with family and friends. Above all, Norma valued family. Her compassion and care for others, shaped her into the best Mother, Grandmother, Sister, Aunt and Friend. Norma would host some of the largest family gatherings, especially if it involved watching the children running and playing in her backyard. She was very outgoing, loving and believed in living life to the fullest. She will be dearly missed by all. Norma leaves to cherish her memory, her children Donovan, Wesley, Lecia, Marlon and Marvin. Three sisters Joan, Conceta and Millicent. Two brothers Audley and Derrick. Four grandchildren Donovan“Nookie”, Kieraun, McKensie and Kingston. Great grandson Macai. Also, nieces, nephews, aunts, uncle and a host of other relatives and friends. Norma is proceeded in death by her sisters Christine and Lorna. Brothers Larkaland and Curtis.

Tributes

Norma Patricia Brown Gowie

May 16, 1952 - July 26, 2023