Mildred Ann Norton Justice, age 89, was called home on Tuesday, April 19, 2022. Born on July 19, 1932, in Macon County, N.C., to Richard Norton and Margaret Burrell Norton, she grew up to be a Proverbs 31 woman, model wife, mother and friend.
Mildred was wife to Coyl Justice for 74 years. Together they owned and operated Big Creek Nursery. Their legacy endures through their beautiful azalea and rhododendron cherished throughout our community. Of the pair, it’s said that Mildred was the memory. She could recall someone’s name, bird species or plant varieties better than anyone.
Mildred was quiet but said now Coyl quite often while he told his tales. She made much with little and could prepare a good lunch for a crowd (often unannounced) with what she already had.
A dedicated member of Betty’s Creek Baptist Church, she studied her Bible daily with Coyl reading aloud to her. Mildred loved her family, especially her great-grandchildren evident by her famous chili and Ziploc bags full of treats.
She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers Kenneth and Dennis Norton; son Gary Justice and husband Coyl Justice. Mildred is survived by her son, Mickey (Debbie) Justice; daughter, Julia (Bruce) Taylor; sister, Dorothy Dickerson; eight grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; two great-great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.
The visitation and funeral were held on April 23 at Betty’s Creek Baptist Church in Dillard, Ga., with Rev. Ronia Hunter and Mickey Justice officiating. Donations may be made to the Bettys Creek Baptist Church Mission Fund, mail to 38 Bob Justice Lane, Rabun Gap, GA 30568.
The Clayton Tribune
April 28, 2022