Ms. Dorita Norman

Ms. Dorita Norman was born on October 6, 1955, to Marion and Mary Norman at Wills Memorial Hospital in Washington, Georgia (Wilkes County). She began her early education at Washington-Wilkes Elementary School before moving to Washington, D.C., where she was lovingly raised by her grandmother, Doretha Kennedy. Dorita attended the District of Columbia Public Schools and graduated from Theodore Roosevelt High School in 1974. That same year, she enrolled at Spelman College in Atlanta, Georgia, where she majored in Sociology. While at Spelman, Dorita was initiated into Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated on May 14, 1974—a sisterhood that would remain close to her heart throughout her life. She graduated in May 1978, marking the beginning of an extraordinary journey filled with purpose, travel, and love. Shortly after graduation, Dorita began her distinguished career with Delta Air Lines on June 5, 1978. Over the course of more than four decades, she traveled the world with poise, grace, and an ever-present smile that warmed everyone she met. She retired in August 2020, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of excellence, kindness, and adventure. After retirement, Dorita enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren, gardening, and completing puzzles. These simple pleasures reflected her peaceful spirit, creative mind, and deep love for family. On August 30, 1986, Dorita married G. Michael Smith, and their union was blessed with two children: Brandon Jamil (born March 15, 1988) and Jasmine Maisha (born December 25, 1989). Dorita’s love for her children was immeasurable, and she nurtured in them the same values of faith, education, and perseverance that defined her own life. Both of Dorita’s children became multiple degree holders—Brandon graduated from Howard University and later earned his MBA from Georgia State University, while Jasmine graduated from Bethune-Cookman University and pursued her Ed.D. studies at Georgia Southern University. Dorita’s pride in their achievements was evident in every conversation, every smile, and every prayer. Dorita also shared her grace and creativity with the world through her business, Precious Pearls by Rita—a reflection of her love for beauty, elegance, and empowerment. She leaves to cherish her memory her beautiful mother, Mary Norman; her brother, Jeff Norman; her half-siblings, Marion and Surtina; her two beloved children, Brandon Jamil and Jasmine Maisha; and her three precious grandchildren—Wise Michael (12), Harlem Ororo-Munroe (9), and Eva Soleil (7). She also leaves behind her devoted niece, Monae; her nieces, Porsche, and Darryl Jr.; a host of loving cousins; and countless family members, sorority sisters, colleagues, and friends who celebrate her remarkable life and lasting legacy. Dorita’s presence illuminated every room she entered. Her elegance, compassion, and faith were as timeless as the pearls she loved—and her spirit will continue to shine in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Tributes

Ms. Dorita Norman

October 6, 1955 - November 2, 2025