Norma Tanner Wilson,age 78, of Rutherfordton, NC (formerly of Raleigh), died Thursday, December 25,2014 at Forest City Health and Rehab. She was a native of Rutherford County and was the daughter of the late William Eber Tanner and the late Eula Mae McIntyre Tanner. Oh what a happy reunion early this Christmas morn when Norma entered the Pearly Gates of Heaven and reunited with her children - Rhuann and Mitchell; her mother, father and sister; together they joined the birthday party for Jesus, the King of Kings and Lord of Lords! Norma was a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother who excelled at everything she did. As a Pastor's wife for many years, she willingly and confidently took on many roles supporting church families. Norma was also a homemaker and through the years created heartwarming memories for her family and friends. She loved to cook and was known for her homemade chow-chow, grape jelly/biscuits, and macaroni pie. She was also a great seamstress and over the years made suits for her husband and dresses for herself. She made many quilts and embroidery pieces that she gave to her family and friends. Norma also sketched and painted freehand and with precision captured the image of landscapes, barns and bridges. She was a writer and organizer, and with her husband created two detailed cookbooks full of family recipes which illustrated how to cook favorite family dishes with ease. Norma was many things too many people and our lives are better because of the positive influence she gave. Norma retired from Food Lion and was the prior owner of the Burger Junction in Garner, NC. Left to cherish her memories are her husband of 64 years, Allen Wilson; her sons Juan Eric and Neal; brother, Malcom; sister, Beverly (husband Tom); special daughter in-law Cindy; five grandchildren (Melissa, Wayne, Dillon, Dustin, Sharalyn); several great-grandchildren; nieces, nephews and many friends, as well as several four-legged grand-dogs (Little Bit, Harley, Brody, Junior, and Cody). A graveside service was held 2 p.m. Saturday, December 27, 2014 at New Hope United Methodist Church in Polk County with Rev. Tommy Martin and Rev. Warren Elliott officiating. An online Guest register/tribute wall is available at www.mcmahansfuneralhome.com. McMahan's Funeral Home and Cremation Service is in charge of the arrangements. Allen, Eric and Neal extend a sincere thank you to all of the family and friends who visited and helped Norma over the last few years. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The Parkinson Association of the Carolinas; http://www.parkinsonassociation.org/ways-to-give/ ; phone # Toll-free: 1-866-903-7275; Email: Or, donations can be made to the charity of one's choice.