Norma "Jean" Hulsey

OLATHE, KANSAS - Norma “Jean” Hulsey, 97, formerly of Farmington, Missouri, passed away peacefully on May 22, 2025, at the Santa Marta Health Services Center in Olathe, Kansas. Jean was born on May 12, 1928, to Elliott and Emma (Bowling) Gordon in Farmington.

In addition to her parents, Jean was preceded in death by her husband of 71 years, Cecil M. Hulsey; her daughter, Jane Cochran; her son-in-law, William Staats; and her brothers, A.J. (Myrtle) Gordon and Rolla (Helen) Gordon.

Jean is survived by her daughters, Ann Staats and Sarah (Ben) Smith; her grandchildren, Meredith (Jeff) Christensen, Andrew (Rachel) Staats, Matthew Cochran, and David Cochran; her great-grandson, Graham Stier; her sister-in-law, Barbara Merseal; and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

Jean and Cecil enjoyed traveling in their spare time. Whether it was touring Europe, white-water rafting on the Colorado River, travelling to all 50 states, or enjoying the beaches on St. Simon’s Island, GA and Sanibel Island, FL, Jean was always up for an adventure. Jean’s appreciation for beauty and elegance was reflected in her home, flower gardens, and personal style. She enjoyed entertaining her family and friends on holidays, special occasions, bridge nights, or just because she wanted to have a party. Jean was a voracious reader and when her eyesight failed, she enrolled in the National Library Service for the Blind talking book program and listened to almost 500 books in 7 years. She was a long-time member of the First Baptist Church of Farmington.

When Cecil’s health declined, they moved to Santa Marta Senior Living in Olathe, Kansas to be close to family. Jean was able to stay in her independent living apartment until a fall in April precipitated her move to the Santa Marta Heath Services Center.

A private inurnment will be held at Parkview Cemetery in Farmington. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the MU Sinclair School of Nursing in honor of Jean Hulsey to support Jane E. Cochran, Ph.D. Memorial Scholarship Fund. Contributions can be made online at nursing.missouri.edu/giving/ or sent to 915 Hitt Street—S403, Columbia, MO 65211. Share your condolences and memories and cozeanfuneralhome.com.