It is with deep sadness we share that Norma Jean Basford passed away peacefully on Tuesday evening, July 14, 2026.

Norma made a lasting impact on NAMI Jacksonville. She and her husband, Hayes Basford, were the driving force for growing NAMI Jacksonville and shepherding its growth by serving as President of the Board, Volunteer Program Director, Helpline Coordinator, Family to Family Teacher, Fundraisers, and employing the true grassroots support that defines NAMI. They shared the work of NAMI by word of mouth everywhere they went, encouraging people to join support groups and classes, and to donate to our mission.  

Norma was deeply gracious and a kind, quiet leader who embodied confidence, grace, generosity, beauty, and wit. It was her leadership that guided the organization to hire its first Program Director in 2018, so she and Hayes could retire (eventually) from their deep commitment to NAMI Jacksonville, though their guidance and support has continued to this day. Norma will be deeply missed by many.

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, August 8, 2026, at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 4129 Oxford Avenue, in Jacksonville.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to NAMI Jacksonville, FL or St. Mark’s Episcopal Church.


Read Norma's obituary here.

‍Donate to NAMI Jacksonville, FL here.