Norma Elaine Schaefer

It is with profound sadness yet deep gratitude for a life well-lived that we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved Norma Elaine Polley Schaefer on June 16, 2026, at the Good Samaritan Society of Olathe. Born on November 17, 1942, in Kansas City, Missouri, Norma was a beacon of grace, kindness, and love throughout her 83 years.

Norma was the cherished daughter of Leona (Harrity) and Newton Weaver, but was raised by a loving dad, Bill Thomsen Sr. She was predeceased by her parents, her dad, her sister Barbara Allen, her brother Bill Thomsen Jr, her first husband Jim Polley, stepson Rick Polley, and many adored aunts and uncles. Despite these losses, Norma's spirit remained unbroken, her resilience and warmth touching all who knew her.

Educated at Argentine High School, from which she graduated in 1960, Norma furthered her studies at the House of Heavlin, becoming an accomplished cosmetologist. Her career spanned over three decades at the Nazarene Publishing House, where she worked diligently for 33 years before her retirement in 2007.

Norma’s life was a testament to love and commitment. She married Jim Polley on December 17, 1966, in Las Vegas, Nevada, creating a family that included two cherished daughters. After Jim's passing in 2001, Norma found love again and married Richard Schaefer on November 5, 2015. Together, they shared ten joyful years, filled with love, laughter, and companionship.

Norma was the loving mother to three children: stepdaughter Sherry Savorelli, and daughters Teri (Mark) Sewell and GerriAnna Poehl (David Bingham). Her heart and home were ever open to her six grandchildren: Jennifer Savorelli, Hannah (Corey) Takes, Cierra Sewell, Alex Tanner, Justin (Leanne) Poehl, and Shelby (Tyler) Phillips, as well as her many great-grandchildren, who were her pride and joy.

Family extended beyond blood for Norma, who was also blessed with three additional siblings: Joyce (Joe) Klinkon, Paul Thomsen, and Grayce Thomsen. Her friendships were many, and her community at the First Baptist Church of Blue Springs, where she worshipped until her move, was another family she cherished deeply.

Norma’s life was rich with service, as she dedicated herself to nurturing the young and volunteering at Operation Breakthrough. Her gift for making everyone feel welcome and special was evident in every interaction, leaving a legacy of kindness and compassion.

A celebration of Norma's life will be held on June 20, 2026, at 4:00 PM at the White Chapel Funeral Home, located at 6600 N Antioch Rd, Gladstone, MO. In lieu of flowers, the family graciously requests donations be made in Norma Schaefer's name to the Alzheimer's Association or Good Samaritan of Olathe, organizations close to her heart.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Good Samaritan for the exceptional care and compassion shown to Norma during her time there.

Norma's radiant smile and gentle spirit will be deeply missed but forever cherished in the hearts of all who were fortunate to know her. As we say goodbye, we remember her life as a testament to unwavering love and kindness, a legacy that will inspire all who follow in her footsteps.