Tribute to TikTok star Norma who has died, aged 91

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Tom Oakley

BBC News, Nottingham

0:56Norma was described as “everyone’s internet nan” in a tribute by a fan

Tributes have been paid to a “precious” grandmother who gained millions of followers online by sharing humorous videos with her granddaughter on social media.

Jess Asquith regularly posted videos of her nan Norma Burton on TikTok, Facebook and Instagram.

The duo, from Retford in Nottinghamshire, shared clips reacting to popular trends and going on days out together.

A post on their “Jess And Norma” Facebook page on Monday evening confirmed Norma had died “peacefully” on Thursday, aged 91.

Norma was described as the family’s “beautiful, precious, perfect lady”, and that her death has “left the biggest hole in all of [their] hearts”.

‘Wonderful life’

Addressing their followers, the tribute added: “We are all truly devastated and our lives will never be the same.

“We want you all to know that nan fell to sleep peacefully, surrounded by all her family, she was full of love and had the most beautiful care.

“If anyone deserves a place in heaven, it’s you Nanny Norma. 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’.”

The Jess And Norma social media accounts have more than 2.6 million followers on TikTok and an additional 1.6 million on Facebook.

In 2023, Norma told the BBC: “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.”

Thousands of fans have also paid tribute to Norma.

Pop star Jade Thirlwall, who found fame with the group Little Mix, said: “Norma brought so much joy to so many, she reminded me of my own Nanna (I would sometimes watch your videos with tears of joy) and helped me heal, as I’m sure is the case for so many people on here.

“What a special lady and family you are.”

Chef Poppy O’Toole added: “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.”

Jess and Norma were also regular visitors to Marshall’s Yard shopping centre in Gainsborough, Lincolnshire, where they switched on the Christmas lights last year.

In a tribute to Norma, a spokesperson for the centre said: “Norma switched on the lights, but it was her wonderful personality and smile that truly lit up the yard.”

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