Norma Mae Byers Brandon, 97, of Springfield, Illinois, formerly of Dallas City, Ill, passed at 8:15 a.m. Thursday, August 27, 2026 at her home in Springfield, Ill, with her daughters at her side. Her son Jeff had just been able to spend three special weeks with her and helping care for her in July. Norma was born in Dallas City on October 31, 1928 on what was the Kenneth and Bernice Craig farm. She was the daughter of Hugh and Dulcie Byers. They later moved to Tina, MO, where Norma spent her early years and attended grade school. She returned to Dallas City where she attended high school.
She married Richard Brandon on November 9, 1945, in Colusa, Ill. He preceded her in death on June 12, 2009.
Before moving to Springfield in 2003, Norma lived most of her married life in the Dallas City area, with the exception of the years she was with Richard during his time in the Navy.
Norma was a wonderful cook, beautiful seamstress, and crafter. She was an avid gardener. It’s the gardening that changed things. In 1957, Norma went to work at Sheaffer Pen Company in Fort Madison, IA in the Data Processing Department. Presumably, she was only going to work long enough to buy a freezer. This turned into a 30-plus-year career for Norma at Sheaffer’s.
After retirement, Norma once again pursued the things she loved. She and Richard bought and restored the E. P. Cassidy farm, rebuilt and redecorated the house. She had her beautiful gardens and flower beds. She quilted and embroidered once again. Her handiwork was beautiful.
Richard and Norma enjoyed wintering in Harlingen, TX, spending time with old friends and making many new ones. Besides playing cards, Bingo and other games, Norma pursued the craft of ceramics and made many beautiful dolls and other pieces that her family cherishes.
She is survived by three children, Marla Welch and Jane (David) Olson of Springfield and Jeff (Debbie) Brandon of Louisburg, KS; a daughter-in-law, Sandy Brandon of Dallas City; eight grandchildren, one step-granddaughter, 12 great-grandchildren, three step-great-grandchildren, and one step-great-great-grandchild; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Richard, and one son, Michael Brandon; all her siblings; and one step-great-grandchild.
The funeral service for Norma will be held at 11:00 a.m. Monday, August 31, 2026, at Banks & Beals Funeral Home in Dallas City, with Pastor Mike Kilgallin officiating. Burial will follow at Thornber Cemetery, Powellton, Illinois.
The family will receive friends one hour prior to services at the funeral home.
A memorial fund has been established for the Dallas City Food Pantry or Thornber Cemetery.