Norma Diane Era

Norma Diane Era, 84, a beloved member of the East New Market and Secretary community, passed away peacefully on April 8, 2026, at her home in East New Market, Maryland. Born on August 22, 1941, in Easton, Maryland, to Emerson F. Bradley and Dorothy Thomas Bradley, Norma’s life was marked by loyal faith and service to the Lord, dedication, love, and a heartfelt commitment to those around her.

Raised by her grandparents, Herman and Carrie Bradley, Norma was fortunate to grow up surrounded by family. Their selfless love and sacrifice ensured that Norma and her five siblings could remain close throughout their lives—a bond she cherished deeply. Norma was a 1959 graduate of North Dorchester High School (NDHS), a milestone that set the stage for her lifelong engagement with her community and education. Norma was a devoted secretary for the Board of Education with many years spent in the office at NDHS before her retirement.

On May 29, 1959, she married the love of her life John Robert "Bobby" Era, Sr. Bobby passed away on December 19, 2007.

Known for her warm and caring spirit, Norma was much loved by all who came in contact with her. She found joy in many simple pleasures: tending to her flower garden and watching the many songbirds that visited her yard, enjoying meals out with friends and gifting them often with her baked treats, and traveling with family and loved ones. Her deep appreciation for all of God’s creation was evident in her daily life, reflecting a gentle reverence for nature and the world around her. Above all, Norma treasured time spent with family and friends, nurturing relationships that were central to her happiness.

A proud and faithful member of Sunnyside Alliance Church, Norma gave generously of her time and talents. She served as a Sunday school teacher, imparting knowledge and kindness to younger generations. Her dedication extended to volunteering in the church’s clothes closet, where she worked tirelessly to provide clothing for the less fortunate, demonstrating her compassionate heart and commitment to service.

Norma’s family was the center of her life. She is survived by her son John Robert Era, Jr. and his wife Crystal of Hurlock, MD, and her son Joseph George Era of East New Market. She also leaves behind cherished grandchildren: Monica Melvin and her husband Brendan, Conner Stewart, and Amber Leigh Era, sister-in-law’s Donna Era and Gerry Bradley. Many nieces, nephews, and their families, all dearly loved by Norma, also carry forward her memory.

She was preceded in death by her husband Bobby, father Emerson Franklin Bradley, her mother Dorothy Thomas Bradley, her grandparents Herman F. Bradley and Carrie Martino Bradley, and her siblings Melvin James Bradley, Stewart Bradley, Peyton Bradley, Johnny Bradley, and Barbara Bradley Phillips.

A visitation will be held at Sunnyside Alliance Church located at 6010 Sunnyside Court, East New Market, MD 21631, on Friday, May 1, 2026, from 10:30 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. This will be followed immediately by a memorial service at the same location beginning 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Paul Karus officiating. Norma will be laid to rest with her husband at the Maryland Eastern Shore Veterans Cemetery in Hurlock, MD, at 6827 E New Market Ellwood Road, with a chapel service commencing at 1:00 p.m. that same day.

Norma’s passing leaves a profound sense of loss among all who knew her. Yet, her legacy of kindness, devotion to family, and unwavering faith remains an enduring inspiration. She lived a life enriched by love and service, and she will be remembered with the deepest respect and affection by all who were privileged to know her.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Norma's name can be sent to Sunnyside Alliance Church, P.O. Box 9, Secretary, MD 21664 or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105

Arrangements entrusted to Newcomb and Collins Funeral Home, Cambridge, MD

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