Norma Burton, the beloved grandma who found unexpected stardom on TikTok alongside her granddaughter Jess Asquith, has died at the age of 91.
Her death was announced by her family on June 10, just days after she passed away peacefully on June 5.
Known to millions simply as “Nanny Norma,” the Nottinghamshire nan captured hearts with her hilarious, wholesome videos and playful charm — racking up over 2.7 million followers on TikTok and 1.6 million more on Facebook.
“She Fell to Sleep Peacefully Surrounded by Family”
In a heartfelt tribute posted to their “Jess and Norma” social media accounts, the family wrote: “05/06/2025, the day our family lost our rock, our everything, our beautiful, precious, perfect lady.
"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 heartbreaking tribute concluded: “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.”
Norma’s rise to internet fame was unexpected but wildly adored. Videos of her doing silly voices, cracking jokes, and sharing everyday adventures with Jess became a viral staple.
One fan-favorite featured Norma joking, “we’re related,” while mimicking a cow and vampire — sending both women into hysterics.
Their popularity even landed Norma on the iTunes charts in 2023, as part of Creator Universe’s festive cover of 'I Wish It Could Be Christmas Everyday'.
In 2023, Norma humbly 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.”
Tributes Pour In from Fans and Celebrities
Thousands took to social media to share their grief and memories. Many self-described “silent viewers” echoed the same sentiment: “Absolutely devastated. The sheer comfort and joy I got from watching Jess and Norma was unmatched. My heart goes out to you Jess and your beautiful family. RIP lovely Norma.”
Another heartbroken fan wrote: "We’re so sorry Jess and family. Sending our love to you all, Norma was one of a kind and will be missed beyond words. Your videos always used to cheer us up and we loved following your life together."
Little Mix’s Jade Thirlwall posted: “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.”
Celebrity chef Poppy O’Toole wrote: “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.”
A Community Icon On and Off Screen
Outside of TikTok, Norma and Jess were active in their local community, often spotted around Retford or at Marshall’s Yard shopping centre in Gainsborough, where they lit up the Christmas lights last year.
The centre shared a touching statement: “Norma switched on the lights, but it was her wonderful personality and smile that truly lit up the yard.”
Our thoughts go out to Norma's loved ones and anybody impacted by her passing.