Norma Fuller, Identified
## Norma "Cookie" Brownell Fuller: A Life of Travel, Arts, and Service
Norma "Cookie" Brownell Fuller, a woman of remarkable resilience and passion, passed away on July 15, 2025, at the age of 98 in Sheridan, Wyoming. Born on December 2, 1926, in Manila, Philippine Islands, to Colonel James Russell Brownell and Mrs. Vera Cook Brownell, her life was marked by extensive travel, a deep appreciation for the arts, and a spirit of service.
As a military spouse, Norma experienced a world of diverse cultures, which significantly influenced her life and interests. She was homeschooled by her mother until she was eight years old and later graduated from Mary Institute, a private high school in St. Louis, Missouri. In 1950, she married Lieutenant Elisha (Jim) Fuller, and together they embarked on a life of adventure, moving 22 times during her husband's military career.
Norma's travels broadened her horizons and fostered her love for the arts. While in Washington, D.C., she studied art and painting at George Washington University and the Corcoran Museum. This passion for the arts led her to become one of the leading docents at the Joslyn Art Museum in Omaha, Nebraska, and later, in Sheridan, Wyoming, at the Bradford Brinton Museum.
Norma was an advocate for the arts, reflecting her passion for creative expression and cultural enrichment. Although specific details about her contributions to the arts are not widely documented, her impact was felt through her teaching and leadership roles. She organized and led tours to various art museums worldwide, including New York, San Francisco, London, Paris, Rome, Athens, Cairo, Beijing, and Rio. She gave her final tour at the age of 91.
In addition to her love for the arts, Norma was a promoter of cultural diversity. She taught others about the importance of embracing diverse cultures and artistic expressions, leaving a lasting impact on those she interacted with. Her dedication to this cause was evident in her roles as president of the Joslyn Art Museum Association, a member of the Joslyn Art Museum Board of Directors, and a member of the Acquisitions Committee.
Norma is survived by her children: James (Spring) Fuller, Robert (Kathryn) Fuller, and Alice (Dana) Kerns. She is also survived by her grandchildren: Brendon (Erin) Kerns, Trent (Mallory) Kerns, Elizabeth Fuller, Joanna (Jose') Cervantez, Taylor (Cathryn) Kerns, and great-grandchildren. Online condolences may be made at www.sheridanfuneral.com.
A Celebration of Life will be held in the fall. Arrangements are under the care of Sheridan Funeral Home. As Norma's life comes to a close, her legacy lives on through her family and the lives she touched through her travels and artistic endeavors. Her life as a military spouse and art enthusiast serves as an inspiration to others, reminding us of the beauty and importance of embracing diverse cultures and artistic expressions.
In her role as a military spouse, Norma's extensive travels introduced her to diverse cultures, significantly expanding her lifestyle and interests. Her love for the arts, nurtured by her experiences, led her to become a prominent figure in art museums, both as a tour organizer and docent.
