Norma Jean Shoaf

Norma Jean Shoaf, 81, of Salisbury, passed away unexpectedly on August 18, 2025. Born on April 30, 1944, in Rowan County, she was the daughter of the late John and Gurla Barger Watson. Jean was a proud graduate of West Rowan High School where she was one of the first graduating classes to attend all four years. She married the love of her life, “Big Jimmy,” in 1966. Together they raised a family built on love, laughter, and strong values. Jean was a talented beautician in her early years before devoting herself fully to her greatest joy—being a wife, mother, and beloved “Mamaw.” Big Jimmy and Jean owned and operated Shoaf’s Wagon Wheel for over 30 years where Jean was the smiling face greeting you as you walked through the door. Her family was the center of her world, and she cherished every moment spent with them. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister, Louise Dean, and her daughter, Angela Jean Shoaf. She is survived by her husband, Jim Shoaf; her brother, Larry Watson; her children, Jimmy Shoaf (Jennifer) and Tonya Barber (Jason); her grandsons, Shane Barber (Fiancée Sydney) and Chase Shoaf; her granddaughters, Kaitlyn Sells (Ronald), Paige Barber, and McKenzie Shoaf (Fiancé Will); her brother-in-law, Kenno Shoaf, Donnie Shoaf (June), and Joe Dean; and her sister-in-law, Kay Hager (Tony). Jean was a lifelong member of Salem Lutheran Church. She found joy in life’s simple pleasures—spending time on the beach with close family and friends, playing cards with her granddaughters, watching Little House on the Prairie, fishing at the pond, and caring for her two donkeys, Iris and Josie, and dog, Corey. She was known for her incredible home cooking and sweet tea, though she humbly denied her talent. Jean will be remembered for her deep love for her family and her love for the Lord. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, August 26, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. at Summersett Funeral Home. The funeral service will be held immediately following the visitation at 1:00 p.m. at Summersett Memorial Chapel. Burial to follow at Rowan Memorial Park. Summersett Funeral Home is serving the Shoaf family. Online condolences may be made at www.summersettfuneralhome.com.

Norma Jean Shoaf

April 30, 1944 - August 18, 2025