“Posted 3/14/2008 7:34:52 PM   
Heather,

I will try to make this a brief as possible.  I went to school with Norma Barnhart (from your family tree) at Marion elem. school in Belle Vernon.  We were the best of friends until she moved away.  I am guessing this was around 1961.  Over the years I have often thought of her and wondered where she went and how she was doing, but was not sure if I could ever find her again. 

Yesterday while cleaning out a cupboard, I found a letter she had written me after she had moved.  Being into genealogy myself, I decided to get on the computer to see if I could find anything about Norma.  Of course I found your gedcom, articles mentioning her going to school at Mount Pleasant, her marriage license application at Westmoreland Co. courthouse, and of course, her death.  I was devastated.  It has been such a long time since we had spoken but I will always remember her with such fondness.  I am writing to you in hope that you may be able to tell me that she had a good and happy life.  Also, would you happen to have a copy of her obituatuary?  Being into genealogy, I thought you might . 

Please forgive this intrusion.  I could scan and send you copies of her 3,4, and 5th grade pictures if you would like.  Thank you for your kindness.

Penny Mills Swope

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Heather,
I'm sorry that I wasn't more specific in my email.  I was referring to Norma Lynn Barnhart
b. 1950  d.2 Aug 1991.
I didn't check through your charts to see how she might be connected to you.  I only hoped that you might have saved an obituary for her.  Your zip code shows me that you do not live in SW PA either.  I guess when I return for one of my reseach trips I will try to find a library that might have back copies of the Daily Courier.
If you are still interested in the pictures  (Norma Lynn Barnhart daughter of Charles and Janice and wife of John Sestock) from elementary school, I will scan and send to you.  I will answer your other questions as well. Please let me know if you are still interested.
Penny 

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Heather,
I have been thinking what to write to you about Norma as I am not sure if you have any knowledge of her or not.  She had polio as a child (before I knew her). This illness left her in leg braces.  It might have wounded her body but not her spirit.  She was one of the kindess and sweetest persons whom I've ever known.  The braces did keep her from playing some of the games at recess like jumping rope but I can remember her managing to play tag.  I just retired in January after teaching 35 1/2 years and in that time have seen students at times be terribly cruel to each other.  I don't remember this happening with Norma.  Everyone liked her so much and admired her.  She had to fight everyday for what we took for granted.  Even though things were sometimes a challenge, Norma was always there with a smile and ready to try.  She never complained or felt sorry for herself.  When I think back, I realize what a miracle for one so young to be so mature and wise.  I thank God that she touched my life for she definately enriched it.
Enclosed are scans of the group pictures from 3rd, 4th, and 5th grades .

3rd grade picture Norma is 4th row from top 3rd from left. I am first row on right
4th grade Norma is 2nd row 5th from left.
5th grade 2nd row -first
I scanned Norma's letter but can't find it in my files.  I will send it later.
Hope this helps.  I still haven't found an obit. yet.  If you hear anything from your internet cousin, please let me know.  If I do find one, would you like a copy?
Penny



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