Norma Baker Lamar

Norma Jean (Morgan) Baker Lamar, 83, passed away peacefully on May 24, 2025, at her home in Gautier, Miss. Born on May 18, 1942, in Montgomery, Ala., Norma’s life was defined by generosity and dedication—to her family, her students, and her many creative passions.

She was the daughter of the late Russell Ivan Morgan and Vela Autery Morgan and grew up in Hope Hull, Ala., attending Sidney Lanier High School. A standout in the 4-H Club, Norma earned top honors in sewing and a coveted trip to Chicago to model her design in a national competition. She continued to sew throughout her life, weaving love in the items she created for countless family members and friends. Norma was deeply creative, which was evidenced by her sewing, painting and her passion for gardening. She was a long-time member of the Gautier Garden Club and always kept a beautiful flower garden.

Norma graduated from Auburn University, where she majored in Home Economics. Her education launched a lifelong career in teaching, and she spent many fulfilling years in the classroom, retiring from Jackson County School District after serving the children ofGautier Elementary and Gautier Junior High Schools for over 30 years. Norma was preceded in death by her first husband, James Kenneth Baker, in 1998, whom she met while teaching in Fort Walton Beach, Florida. They moved to the Mississippi Gulf Coast in 1971 where they settled and grew their family. In 2011, Norma found love again and married her high school sweetheart, William Wallace Lamar, who survives her. Their later-in-life reunion was a source of great joy and comfort to both.

Norma’s legacy continues through her loving family. She is also survived by her children Mike Baker (Sandy), Greg Baker (Angie), Lee Baker, Meredith "Missy" Matthews (David), Richard Lamar (Amy) and Alicia Giordano (Tony). She also leaves behind cherished grandchildren NaCole Stewart (Joe), Chad Baker (Tiffany), and Jessica Lisenby (Andrew), Evelyn and Norah Lamar, Ryan Giordano, and Regan Nodjomian (Jason); along with four great-grandchildren, Jenna, Mary Kate, Isaac and Canaan Baker and Joe Stewart; and a host of beloved nieces and nephews.

Norma’s warmth, generosity, and gentle spirit touched many lives—whether through her classroom lessons, a shared favorite recipe, her wise gardening tips or her unwavering love and support of her family. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her.

A celebration of Norma’s life will be held on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, at O’Bryant O’Keeffe Funeral Home in Gautier. Family visitation will begin at 11:30 am and public visitation will begin at 12:30 pm. Funeral services will start at 1:30 pm and the graveside service and interment will take place at 2:30 pm at Crestlawn Memorial Park in Ocean Springs. Serving as pallbearers will be Mike Baker, Greg Baker, Lee Baker, David Matthews and Chad Baker.

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