Grandmother Norma, who became famous on TikTok for making funny videos with her granddaughter Jess, has died aged 91.
Jess and Norma, who are from Nottinghamshire, had amassed a following of 2.7million people in just a few years, by posting heartwarming videos of the two of them together.
The pair were preparing for the launch of their book ‘A lifetime of laughter and our unbreakable bond’ next month and Norma had just celebrated her 91st birthday.
Norma’s family said they had lost “our rock” in a joint statement published on their TikTok page last night. They confirmed she died “peacefully” in her sleep on June 5.
In one viral video, Jess pranks Norma by telling her there is an opportunity to win £10,000 on TikTok, if you can explain why you think you deserve the money.
Jess proceeds to tell the story of how she grew up, with some deliberate exaggerations and untruths, to see how Norma will react.
“Oh Jessica you’re going silly, you can’t say that,” Norma declares, quickly followed by “Oh come off it Jess, you’re doing my head in.”
Jess and Norma burst into fits of laughter as Jess’s story becomes more fabricated.
“Do you think we deserve the £10,000?” Jess asks at the end of the video, to which Norma replies “Well I certainly do, for putting up with you and your rubbish.”
The video had over 115,000 shares and 1.3 million likes, with people saying “I love her laughter”, “this is hilarious” and “Nan is a good sport”.
“We are all truly devastated and our lives will never be the same,” the family said in their statement.
“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”.
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“91 years was never going to be enough and she has left the biggest hole in all of our hearts. Reunited with her husband and family, until we meet again, our queen.”
Little Mix’s Jade Thirlwall said: “Sending you and your family so much love. 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.”
One fan wrote: “I've never cried for anyone on a social platform , I'm not ashamed to admit I'm sobbing my eyes out right now, Norma you was so special, I hope you know how many peoples hearts you touched, rest in peace you absolutely beautiful soul of a lady... I know God has a special place in heaven for you.”
Housewives of Cheshire star Dawn Ward also wrote: "Oh I'm so sad she was so amazing and loved watching her. You will have amazing memories forever and thousands of people will remember her thanks to you!".
“She wasn’t just a nan to few she was everyone’s favourite, putting smiles on everyone’s faces. Love you so much nan Norma, hope you are having a great time in heaven and serving away as usual. We all love you so much. condolences to the family xx,” another fan wrote.
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