Brenda Joyce (Babb) Norton, age 79, of Springfield, MO, passed away Wednesday, September 1, 2021 at her home surrounded by her family.

Brenda was born on February 19, 1942 in Tulsa, OK.  She was the second child born to J.F. and Bernice (Roth) Babb.  Brenda spent her entire childhood in Tulsa and graduated from Central High School in 1960.  Brenda was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Kenneth Babb.

After high school graduation Brenda married and became the mother of two precious daughters.  In 1982 Brenda and her family moved to Springfield, MO.  In addition to her role as a devoted mother, Brenda began volunteering at the Missouri Victim's Center.  It was there Brenda became a strong advocate for children and women in abusive situations.  Her volunteer work led to a full time staff position at the Missouri Victim's Center.  During her years at the Victim's Center Brenda was instrumental in establishing training for the Springfield Police Department in working with abuse victims.  Brenda was also the advocate coordinator and trainer at the Center.  Brenda received countless accolades for her work with and for victims of abuse.

Brenda was a member of James River Church.  Brenda loved the Lord with all of her heart and served him daily.  Brenda was a devoted patriot and loved her country.  Brenda's greatest joy in life was spending time with her family.  She was a loving and kind person and was deeply loved by her family.

Brenda was a championship bowler and traveled the country competing in tournaments.  She also enjoyed playing volleyball, doing puzzles and playing all card games, especially spades.

Brenda is survived by: her two daughters, Kristy Norton of Springfield, MO and Kimberley Carleton of Nixa, MO; one sister, Sherrie Runion of Springfield, MO and her husband Randy; two grandsons, Joel Carleton of Nixa, MO and Chad Carlton of Springfield, MO and his wife Emily and their children, Jewel, Isla and Orion and one nephew, Trent Runion of Olathe, KS and his wife Kristen.

Services are to be held at Gorman-Scharpf Funeral Home, 1947 East Seminole, Springfield, MO 65804, on Saturday, September 18, 2021 at 1:00 pm.