Norma Jean Fickel Gastin was born on November 22, 1934, in Logan, Ohio, to Jacob and Kathryn Fickel. She passed away peacefully at age 91 on the 26th day of February, 2026.
Norma graduated from Logan High School, where she was a cheerleader, a 4-year class officer, and part-time employee at a local grocery store. Following graduation, she worked for the General Telephone Company in Logan. In July of 1954, she married her high school sweetheart and while Jim pursued his studies at Ohio University, Norma continued working until their first son, Jim, came along. The family moved back to Logan where they were joined by a second son, Brian.
Norma was an active member of Trinity United Brethren Church until the family moved to New Philadelphia in 1966. There, while raising two energetic school-aged boys and supporting Jim in his role as high school principal, Norma worked at a local drug store and later at a doctor’s office.
Another move came in 1970 when Jim accepted a principal position in Mount Vernon. The years that followed were rich with friendships formed through First Church of the Nazarene, the boys’ sports and other school activities, and Norma’s work at Foster’s Drug Store and later in Dr. James McCann’s office. After a brief stint back in Logan, Jim and Norma returned to Mount Vernon, where they have enjoyed the past 40 years.
Back in Mount Vernon, Norma continued working, first for Drs. Fairchild and Nussbaum and later at Williams’ Flower Shop. Eventually, though, she retired to devote herself fully to doting on her six grandchildren. Their home was a gathering place for family and friends, especially during the annual Fourth of July fireworks celebration. Each year, the backyard of the house on Kester Drive was covered with lawn chairs and blankets filled with friends and family of all ages celebrating together—always a fun time.
Nearly 30 years ago, Norma was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. Jim stepped into the role of caregiver and was singularly devoted to her comfort throughout the rest of their years together. Through every phase of this journey, she maintained her sweet spirit and sense of humor, making her a favorite resident at Ohio Eastern Star Home.
Norma was preceded in death by her parents, Kathryn and Jacob Fickel, and her brother, Harold Fickel.
She is survived by her beloved husband of 71 years, Jim Gastin; her sons, Jim (Rhonda) Gastin and Brian (Lori) Gastin; her grandchildren, Tyler (Courtney) Gastin, Michelle Gastin, Jaret Gastin, Cory Gastin, Anna (Seth) Bainbridge, and Jacob Gastin; and great-grandchildren, Willow Bainbridge, Bear Bainbridge, and Kendall Gastin.
Norma Jean will be remembered for her faith, her deep love for family, and her sweet, funny spirit.
A funeral service will be held on Friday, March 6, 2026 beginning at 1 pm at the First Church of the Nazarene, 807 Coshocton Road, Mount Vernon, Ohio 43050 where friends may call from 11 am until the time of service. Burial will follow in Mound View Cemetery.
Memorial contributions in Norma’s name may be made to Kiwanis to continue supporting the Norma J. Gastin scholarship.
To share a memory or leave a condolence for the family, visit www.snyderfuneralhomes.com
The Flowers-Snyder Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Norma Jean Gastin.
Funeral Home: Snyder Funeral Home, Flowers Chapel
Website: www.snyderfuneralhomes.com