Norma Jean Ball

Norma Jean Ball, 78, of Big Ugly, WV, passed away on February 9, 2025, at her home. She was born on July 18, 1946, in Beckley, WV, to the late Opal and Cecil Cottrell. Norma worked as a coal miner for over 25 years before retiring from Elk Run Coal. She was a strong, determined woman who proved time and again that she could hold her own in a tough industry, all while being a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved daughter, Connie Lovejoy; and her brother, Ronnie Cottrell. She is survived by her loving husband of 35 years, George Ball, with whom she shared more than four decades of love. Also surviving are her sister, June Ferrell of Orgas, WV, and her children: Bobby Cooper and wife Christy of Rutledge, TN; Terry Cooper and wife Michele of Whitesville, WV; Jimmy Cooper and wife Elli of Whitesville, WV; and Tera Cooper of Charleston, WV. She also leaves behind her stepchildren, Tina Hunt and husband Steve of Grand Blanc, MI, and Gregg Ball of Chapmanville, WV. Norma cherished her 12 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren, all of whom brought endless joy to her life. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews. Norma had a fiery spirit and a heart as big as the meals she loved to cook for her family. Despite her small stature—often needing a step stool just to climb into the truck—she was a force to be reckoned with. Whether she was at her kitchen table sharing stories, feeding her loved ones, or shooting coyotes out the window, she lived life on her terms, with strength and humor. Her legacy of toughness, love, and laughter will live on in all who knew and loved her. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. in the Armstrong Funeral Home Whitesville, WV with Rev. Mike Keeney officiating. The visitation will be 2 hours before the services at the funeral home.

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