Merry Virginia Retzer Norman Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Formerly of Beaver Merry Virginia Retzer Norman, native of Beaver, Pennsylvania, and a resident of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, since 1970, died on Friday, January 5, 2018, at Baton Rouge General Hospital after a long battle with Alzheimer's. She is survived by her husband and soulmate, Daniel Norman, who will miss her presence dearly. Merry also leaves behind a loving sister, Ruth Renkenberger; five children, Marcia Shannon, Matthew Shannon (Jeanne Bidondo-Shannon), Michael Shannon (Jessica Fernandez), Marshall Shannon (Aleta Cronce) and Martin Shannon (Joy Mosbacker Bowens); fourteen grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren, and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews. Mrs. Norman was proceeded in death by her daughter, Maureen Leigh Shannon; her son, Mark Shannon, and her first husband, Gerald Humbert Shannon. A visitation was held at the Unitarian Church of Baton Rouge on 8470 Goodwood Blvd., on Saturday, January 13, 2018, at 9 a.m., where a Memorial Service followed at 10 a.m. with a reception afterwards. The family asks that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Alzheimer's Services of the Capital Area. The family would like to extend a special thanks to Merry's caregivers: Petra Davis, Danette Fields and Megan Thompson, to Griswald Home Care and Kindred at Home. Merry's children are very proud of their mom's vocational accomplishments, specifically being among the first women hired at Exxon in 1973 as an Apprentice Operator and retired as a Controller. Merry enjoyed bowling with the Exxon Women's League and the Strikes and Spare Bowling League, in her down time. Merry was a beautiful, strong woman whose vibrant personality could brighten a room! Though Merry has departed this world, she lives on in the hearts and memories of her family and friends. Greenoaks Funeral Home and Memorial Park, Baton Rouge, La., is in charge of arrangements.
