Norma Jean (Goodling) Braidigan, 75, of Palmetto, FL, passed peacefully on April 28, 2025, in Sarasota, FL.
She was born on June 3, 1949, in Mifflintown, Juniata County. Norma was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend.
Norma is survived by her husband, Brian H. Braidigan of Palmetto, FL, and her sons, Sean M. Washington with his wife Tracie of Harrisburg, and Craig S. Braidigan with his wife Nancy of Richfield, WI. Her four grandchildren also survive her: Rachel Washington, Katelyn Washington, Ava Braidigan, and Addison Braidigan. Furthermore, she is survived by her sister Ruth Ann (Goodling) Kahley with her husband John of McAlisterville, Dennis K. Goodling with his wife Shirley of McAlisterville, two sisters-in-law, Edna Peiffer with her husband George of Marysville, Julia Goodling of McAlisterville; and several nieces, nephews, and extended family.
She was predeceased by her parents: Clayton L. Sr. and Imogene L. (Comp) Goodling, brothers: Clayton L. "Bud" Goodling Jr. and Ronald L. Goodling, and her infant grandson, Andrew M. Washington.
Norma is a graduate of East Juniata High School, class of 1967. She was a member of St. Mark's Evangelical Lutheran Church in Harrisburg.
Norma began her career with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania in 1967 and worked in various administrative roles for the Department of Revenue. She also served as a union steward for AFSCME.
Norma became a union representative for AFSCME Council 90 in 1976 and worked her way up the ranks at AFSCME. She was the first woman to serve as a Council 13 grievance representative, and subsequently the first woman appointed as an Executive Assistant. She was responsible for AFSCME members in nine Commonwealth agencies, was a specialist in women's issues and needs, and served as a special advisor to Council 13's Women's Committee. Norma served on several boards and committees and attended nationwide conventions and events. Finally, she became Director of AFSCME, Council 86, New Columbia. She represented the interests of public employees and will be deeply missed by those who knew her.
In her free time, Norma enjoyed traveling, reading, camping, and spending quality time with her family and friends.
A visitation will be held on Saturday, May 31, 2025, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am at St. Mark's Evangelical Lutheran Church, 4200 Londonderry Rd., Harrisburg, PA 17109. A funeral service will be held immediately following the visitation. Her family is happy to have The Rev. James E. Person lead the funeral service.
In place of flowers, please donate to the Alzheimer's Association in her name at alz.org.
