It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Judith Ann Norton, our cherished family member. Judy is at peace after a battle with mesothelioma. Born in Newport, RI, she was the daughter of the late Harry (Bud) and Erna Jean (nee MacDonald) Scott. Judy is survived by her husband of 55 years, Rev. Ivan, her son, James (Lisa Verge), her daughter, Beth Ann (Jamey) Vickery, her granddaughter, Julianna, her grandson, James, and her brother, Ian. She is also survived by several cousins. Judy was a devoted wife, a wonderful mother, and a proud grandmother.
She attended St Michael’s Episcopal School, Newport RI, and graduated from Middletown High School, Middletown RI. Judy held degrees from Acadia University (BA History) and the Atlantic School of Theology (MTS). Always interested in local history, she was a recognized authority and valued resource for inquiries into the New England Planters. Working for the Planters Study Committee at Acadia University, she compiled “New England Planters in the Maritime Provinces of Canada 1759-1800, Bibliography of Primary Sources.” In later years, Judy was actively involved at the Kings Historical Society in Kentville.
Becoming a Canadian citizen in 1973, she was very proud to say, “I am a citizen of Canada.” She loved this province and this country.
Judy was a woman of faith. A member of The United Church of Canada, she served the church capably and with devotion, providing church leadership for over 50 years. Starting as a teenage Sunday School teacher, then as a minister’s wife, volunteering proved to be the stepping stone for Judy as she provided ministry in the areas of Christian Education, Bible Studies, Adult Study Courses, as well as preaching and leading worship. In retirement, she was lay worship leader and an elder at Emmanuel United Church, Kingsport.
Judy loved the Berwick United Church Camp. Under the beautiful hemlock trees and sitting on her Berwick porch with family and friends was a wonderful taste of heaven to come. Her last outings included afternoon visits to the Berwick cottage. She attended Berwick Camp for 50 years.
Her family wishes to thank the medical and nursing staff of Valley Regional Hospital, Judy’s family physician, Dr. Shawn Magee, Berwick Medical Practice, the Annapolis Valley Palliative Care team and the VON. She considered each care giver a blessing.
Her service of resurrection and memory (with livestream) will take place on Monday, October 12, 2026 at 2 p.m., at the White Family Funeral Home, Kentville, NS, with reception to follow. Interment to take place at Jawbone Corner Cemetery, Canard.
If desired, memorial donations could be directed to Emmanuel United Church, 30 Main St. Kingsport, NS B0P1H0, Berwick United Church Camp, or the VON.
The Norton family wishes to thank friends at the White Family Funeral Home for their compassion and care.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the White Family Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Kentville.
