Retirees Association

Norma Sue Wilcox, 78, Professor of Sociology

memorial candle

Norma Sue Campbell Wilcox, 78, passed at home in Kettering, Ohio, on Oct. 22, 2017, following an extended illness.

Norma was a professor of Sociology for nearly 30 years at Wittenberg University, Wilmington College, and Wright State University. She was particularly passionate about teaching in a Wilmington College program offering undergraduate degrees at Lebanon and Warren Correctional Institutions.

Born September 27, 1939 in Marion, IL, Norma was a member of the Marion High School Class of 1957. She attended Southern Illinois University where she met her husband of 57 years, Jerry Wilcox. They began their courtship while Jerry tutored Norma in math at the student union. After pausing to start a family, Norma earned a bachelor's degree from University of Arkansas-Little Rock and a master's and Ph.D. from Saint Louis University.

She and Jerry moved to Kettering in 1978, where they settled. She was a world traveler, a lover of knowledge, a fighter for equality, and a confidante and role model to so many, including her two daughters, many nieces and nephews, and countless students. Her wonderful laugh and feisty spirit lives on in the memories of all who loved her.

She was preceded in death by her daughter, Sheila Jane Hamilton; sister Lois Browder (Ray); brother Bob Campbell (Vera); and parents Lessie and Lawrence Campbell. She is survived by her husband, Jerry Wilcox of Kettering; daughter, Pamela Wilcox (Michael Rosenberg) of Newport, KY; son-in law, Donnie Hamilton (Jan) of Centerville, OH; sisters Shirley Holderfield (Robert) and Virginia Langan (Leon) of Marion, IL; brother John Campbell (Barbara) of Clarksville, IN; and brother James Campbell (Patricia) of Marion, IL.

The family thanks her many talented and loving caregivers. At Norma's request, there will be no service.