Norma A. (McIlvaine) Readdy

On Tuesday, April 27, 2021, Norma Almisha (McIlvaine) Readdy, beloved mother of four and devoted grandmother of three died at age 89.

Norma was born on May 21, 1931, in New York, NY to Vivian (Cummings) and W. Edgar McIlvaine. She grew up in Portland, Maine. After graduating from Portland High School, where she lettered on the Ski and Equestrian teams, Norma moved to Boston, MA. She met and married Paul M. Readdy, Sr. 

A passionate gardener, during the summer months you could find Norma in the community garden tending her flowers and vegetables. Other hobbies included sewing and knitting beautiful handmade clothing for family and friends or putting together complex jigsaw puzzles — the more pieces the better. A classically trained pianist, Norma enjoyed a range of music: classical, jazz, gospel, and R&B. An avid walker, Norma could outpace and distance most people. Always on the go, she loved to travel, particularly road trips. A strong and resilient woman, Norma was known for her easy elegance, quick wit, infectious smile, and kind and caring spirit. 

Norma was preceded in death by her parents and husband, Paul Sr. She is survived by her children: Paul Jr., Almisha, Peter, and Yvonne (Alfred Puller) Readdy and her grandchildren: Amir, Asim, and Asha McManus. Among the many cherished extended family who mourn Norma’s passing are her cousins who were like siblings since childhood: Thomas “Sonny” Cummings, Leonard (Mary Jane) Cummings, and Anita (Gerald) Talbot; a friend of 72 years, Flossie Neil; godchildren Jennifer and Jeffrey Neil; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends across the US and abroad. A special thank you to the physicians and healthcare workers who continued to provide excellent care during a challenging period.  In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Beth Israel Lahey Health at Home Hospice, the Community Music Center of Boston, or your charity of choice.

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