Funeral services for Norma "June" Blythe, 71 of Van, will be at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, March 8th at the First Baptist Church of Van under the direction of Hilliard Funeral Home. Family graveside services will be Monday, March 9th at 2:30 p.m. in Coweta, OK. After a courageous battle with cancer, Ms. Blythe went home to be with her Lord on March 5, 2009. She was a brave example for all, expressing love even in her last hours.

Born October 4, 1937, in Coweta, OK she spent most of her life in "her town", Van, TX. She graduated from Van High School and continued her journey there working in the school cafeteria for 20 plus years. She became known as the town hugger where she freely gave hugs to anyone who would accept them. Ms. Blythe attended the First Baptist Church and was a member of the Adult Three Sunday School class where so many aided in her care.

She was preceded in death by her loving parents, Bryan and Oreta Blythe.

Those left to cherish her memory are: her devoted sister, Barbara Gillentine and husband James of Longview, TX, nephews: Steve Gillentine and his wife Judy of Longview, and Chuck Gillentine and his wife Cindy of St. Louis, MO, niece: Julie Weldon and her husband Ed of Longview, and special friends: Patsy and John Green and Charlotte Terry of Van, and Frank and Nancy Alford of Longview. She will also be missed by ten great nieces and nephews who will continue her legacy of love.

The family wishes to extend a special thank you to the entire staff of Margaret's House and especially her home nurse, Kay who demonstrated great love and compassion during her final days. You are truly angels in disguise.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be sent Beacon Hospice at Margaret's House, 5016 Gilmer Rd. Longview, TX 75604.