Jean Heintz Norton

Jean Marie Heintz Norton, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and sister, passed away peacefully on February 7, 2026, surrounded by her loving family after a short illness. She was 87 years old.

Jean was born on May 31, 1938, at Hotel Dieu in New Orleans, Louisiana, to Julius Burt Heintz and Yvonne Madeline Burkenstock Heintz. From a young age, she knew she was called to care for others. While in high school, she volunteered as a candy striper at Ear, Nose, and Throat Hospital in New Orleans. Shortly after graduation, she moved to Los Angeles, California, to attend nursing school, beginning a devoted career that would span more than 35 years. Her compassion and dedication as a nurse touched countless lives.

In addition to nursing, Jean was an accomplished professional dog groomer and successful business owner. Her deep love for animals and wildlife defined much of her life. She was especially fond of dogs and horses and was passionate about wildlife rescue and rehabilitation. A devoted birding enthusiast, she found great joy in nature. Over the years, she proudly showed and bred AKC Poodles, American Bulldogs, and Chihuahuas, earning the admiration and friendship of many in the dog community.

Above all, Jean treasured her family. She adored her grandchildren and was profoundly blessed to know and love all nine of her great-grandchildren. Her family was her greatest pride and joy.

She is survived by her son, William Douglass Norton; her daughter, Lynn Maureen Norton Guillot and her spouse, Dr. Thomas Guillot; her grandchildren, Sarah Juliet Guillot Heck (Samuel Heck) and Casey Elizabeth Norton Bopp (Jacob Bopp); and her nine great- grandchildren: Juliet Heck, Valerie Heck, Samuel Heck, Genevieve Guillot Heck, Joseph Heck, Magdalana Bopp, Callahan Bopp, Theodore Bopp, and Beatrice Bopp. She is also survived by her sister, Charlene Heintz Kearney (Martin); her nieces, Caitlin Lorraine Kearney and Farrah May Heintz Farnsworth; and many dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her precious and beloved grandson, Christopher Lynn Guillot; and her lifelong best friend, Pat Rose.

Jean will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her. One of Jean’s greatest joys was singing to her children and grandchildren. She often sang, “You are my sunshine, my only sunshine,” a song that perfectly reflected the warmth and love she poured into her family. Though she is no longer with us, her sunshine will continue to live on in the hearts of those she cherished so dearly.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to St. Joseph’s Hospice for their compassionate support and excellent care in Jean’s final days.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Jean’s memory may be made to a local animal rescue organization of your choice or to St. Joseph’s Hospice.

A Memorial Life Celebration will take place and be shared at a later date.