Norma Randolph Cahill

Norma Randolph Cahill, born September 14th, 1932, in Ravenscroft, TN, passed away on February 21, 2025, at age 92. Norma was preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Hassie Randolph; her sister Doris Clark; and her brother Bryant Randolph.

Norma spent her childhood in Lee County, VA, graduating from St. Charles, High School in 1950, where, among other activities, she played half-court girls’ basketball. After graduation she ventured north to find work and settled in Dayton, Ohio. Soon after, she met Ginger Connell and they became lifelong friends. While simultaneously going to night school to get an accounting certificate, Norma worked in finance and accounting for several firms, including NCR and Westwood Tool.

While Norma enjoyed working, her most cherished role was taking care of her family --- a role she conducted with passion, beauty, and grace. From the start of her adult life, she regularly sent money home to help her parents after the local coal mines closed. She helped her brother, sister, and eventually her parents relocate to the Cincinnati – Dayton area. Norma gave up countless late nights and weekends to see that her children had everything they needed, especially when it came to their education. Norma was a fierce protector of family, fought tirelessly for those less fortunate, had an open heart for children, and was generous of her time, her counsel, and her love. 

She was an amazing cook. Her fried chicken, home fries, and biscuits were out of this world, and she made the best German chocolate cake on the planet. When her children were young, she made her own baby food, butter, ketchup, granola, bread, canned vegetables from the garden and made homemade jellies and jams. And don’t even get us started on her homemade pie crust and pumpkin pie filling. She was a great gift-giver, taking special care to pick out the right gifts for each loved one. Norma was a huge college sports fan – nothing got in the way of her watching OSU Buckeyes football and basketball. She loved spending time with her friends and once Norma met you, she considered you family.

Norma is survived by her husband of more than 60 years, Paul Vernon Cahill; her daughter Rebecca Kinsey (Doug); her son Jason Cahill (Tanya); and the loves of her life her five grandchildren Jack Butler, Grace Butler, Brendan Cahill, Emily Cahill, and Sarah Cahill. Norma also leaves nieces, nephews, and extended Randolph family members to carry on her memory.

A private cremation is planned. Donations in Norma’s memory can be made to one of her favorite places: The Aullwood Audubon Center at aullwood.audubon.org