Tributes have poured in for a beloved grandmother who captured the hearts of millions with her humorous videos shared alongside her granddaughter on social media. Jess Asquith, from Retford in Nottinghamshire, regularly posted videos of her grandmother, Norma Burton, on platforms like TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram, where they quickly gained widespread attention. Their heartwarming and hilarious clips—often reacting to popular trends or enjoying days out together—turned Norma into an online sensation and made her an endearing figure for millions of followers.
Norma, who passed away peacefully on Thursday at the age of 91, was described as a “beautiful, precious, perfect lady” in a touching tribute shared by Jess on their “Jess And Norma” Facebook page. The post, which went live on Monday evening, confirmed the sad news of Norma’s passing and expressed the deep sense of loss felt by her family and fans. “We are all truly devastated and our lives will never be the same,” the tribute read. “Nan fell to sleep peacefully, surrounded by all her family. She was full of love and had the most beautiful care.”
The family’s emotional message also highlighted how Norma’s final years were made incredibly special thanks to her large and supportive online community. “Social media and our community online made nan’s last years so incredibly special; her cup was full, and in her own words, she ‘lived such a wonderful life,'” they said. The tribute concluded with a heartfelt note, saying, “If anyone deserves a place in heaven, it’s you Nanny Norma.”
Norma’s impact was far-reaching, with the “Jess And Norma” social media accounts boasting over 2.6 million followers on TikTok and an additional 1.6 million followers on Facebook. Their fans were not just spectators but actively participated in the warmth and joy of their shared experiences. Norma, who gained fame through her online presence, often joked about the attention she received. In a 2023 interview with the BBC, she laughed about the phenomenon, saying, “You’d think they’d have something better to do than watch me. It’s overwhelming, but we have some lovely people that we’ve talked to.”
Norma’s charm and infectious personality struck a chord with fans of all ages, many of whom were deeply moved by her passing. One of those fans was pop star Jade Thirlwall of Little Mix, who shared her own tribute to the 91-year-old. “Norma brought so much joy to so many,” Thirlwall wrote. “She reminded me of my own Nanna. I would sometimes watch your videos with tears of joy, and she helped me heal, as I’m sure is the case for so many people on here.”
Thirlwall continued, “What a special lady and family you are.” The tribute from the pop star echoed the sentiments of countless fans who had found joy, comfort, and connection through Norma’s presence on social media.
Chef Poppy O’Toole also shared her appreciation, writing, “Thank you, Norma, for giving so many of us fun and comfort over the last few years. You are and forever will be an icon.” Such comments from fans, celebrities, and the wider community demonstrate the lasting impact Norma had on people’s lives, particularly through her ability to bring humor and warmth into the homes of millions.
Jess and Norma’s social media presence extended beyond their daily video posts. They were also well-known visitors to Marshall’s Yard shopping centre in Gainsborough, Lincolnshire, where they became beloved figures. Last year, they were invited to switch on the Christmas lights at the shopping center, and it was Norma’s infectious personality and radiant smile that truly made the event memorable for everyone. A spokesperson for Marshall’s Yard paid tribute to Norma, saying, “Norma switched on the lights, but it was her wonderful personality and smile that truly lit up the yard.” It was a fitting tribute to a woman whose light had shone so brightly, both in person and online, for so many years.
As a grandmother, Norma brought a unique joy and perspective to the world of social media, something that was rare yet so cherished. Her partnership with Jess created a dynamic that many people adored, with their genuine affection for each other shining through in every video. The fact that they brought laughter, love, and moments of connection to a wide audience made their content stand out in a sea of digital creators. Many followers saw themselves in the pair’s everyday experiences and playful antics, which made them feel like part of the family.
For Norma, becoming an online star in her later years was an unexpected journey. Yet, she embraced it wholeheartedly, allowing herself to be part of a movement that sought to bring positivity, laughter, and connection through technology. In doing so, she became an emblem of how social media can bridge generational gaps and create a lasting impact. For her granddaughter Jess, it was not just about creating content but about sharing precious moments with someone who had been such a significant part of her life.
The loss of Norma has left a void not just in her family but in the hearts of millions of her followers who found joy in her videos. In their tribute, Jess and her family expressed gratitude for the immense support they had received from the online community, noting that Norma had been deeply touched by the love and kindness shared by fans. “Her cup was full,” they wrote, highlighting the fulfillment Norma experienced through the outpouring of affection from her followers, making her final years truly remarkable.
Norma’s story also sheds light on the power of social media in transforming lives, particularly for those in later stages of life. While many older individuals might be hesitant to engage with new technologies, Norma’s story is a testament to how embracing these platforms can open new doors for connection, self-expression, and joy. She broke through barriers and proved that it’s never too late to start something new, to be a part of the global conversation, and to make a lasting impact.
Jess Asquith’s tribute to her grandmother Norma Burton goes beyond the loss of a loved one. It celebrates the extraordinary journey they had together, a journey that was made even more special because of the platform they used to share their experiences with the world. In honoring Norma’s memory, Jess has ensured that her grandmother’s legacy will continue to inspire and bring joy to people for years to come. Through the power of social media, Norma became more than just a grandmother—she became an icon of love, laughter, and the beauty of life.
In the face of grief, Jess and her family’s tribute serves as a reminder of the importance of cherishing the moments we have with our loved ones, whether online or in person. Norma’s life, full of love and laughter, is an example of how the bonds we share with others can transcend time and space. Even in her passing, Norma Burton’s spirit will continue to light up the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to experience the joy she spread through her online presence.
