Norma Jean Hermick

Norma Jean Hermick, a dedicated healer, a woman of deep faith, and a feisty spirit to the very
end, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, at the age of 85.
Born in New Brighton, Pennsylvania, Norma Jean’s life was defined early on by a calling to serve
others. After graduating high school, she entered nursing school—a pivotal step that set the
foundation for a distinguished 55-year career, culminating with her prestigious induction into
the Cleveland Clinic Nursing Hall of Fame. As a Registered Nurse, Jean found her true
professional home in the Emergency Room; the fast-paced environment was her happy place
where her skill and quick wit could shine. Even when she could no longer meet the physical
demands of the ER, her passion for the field never waned, and she transitioned into nursing
education to mentor the next generation of caregivers. 
Jean was a true trailblazer in her field, known widely as the mother of paramedicine in Beaver
County, PA. Alongside a dedicated group of colleagues, she pioneered the paramedic and EMT
services for the region, forever changing the landscape of emergency response in her
community.
Norma Jean’s commitment to service extended far beyond the hospital walls. She was an
Associate Sister of Notre Dame, a deeply dedicated parishioner of Our Lady of Peace (OLOP),
served on the Ashtabula County Board of Developmental Disabilities, and worked the voting
polls for years. Her faith was put into action through her extensive volunteer work with the St.
Vincent de Paul Society, always living by the principle of helping anyone, any time.
While she took immense pride in her professional accomplishments, her family was her
greatest treasure. Her grandchildren were her pride and joy, and she leaves behind a legacy of
love, strength, and perhaps a bit of that trademark feistiness in each of them.
She was preceded in death by her sister, Nancy Drogus, and her niece, Gaye Barber.
Jean’s memory will be cherished by her three children: Lisa (Ray) Kraus, Terri (Mark) Orlando,
and Greg (Diane) Myers. She is also survived by her seven grandchildren: Leo (Alyssa) Orlando,
Lauren Kraus, Sarah (Andrew) Robinson, Alex Orlando, Megan (Cameron) Moore, Rylie Myers,
and Emalie Myers; as well as four great-grandchildren who brought her much happiness. She
will be remembered not just for the length of her career, but for the depth of her heart and her
unwavering willingness to help those in need.
The family wishes to express their deepest, most sincere gratitude to the staff at the Ashtabula
County Nursing and Rehabilitation Center for their loving care. They also extend a special thank
you to the nurses, spiritual care coordinators, social workers, volunteers, and aides from
Reserve Care Hospice, who went above and beyond to provide comfort and dignity to Jean in
her final days.
In keeping with Norma Jean’s lifelong spirit of giving, the family requests that in lieu of flowers,
donations be made in her honor to the St. Vincent de Paul Society c/o Our Lady of Peace Parish or Reserve Care Hospice.

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