Norma P. Cavanaugh

Norma Marie (Perugini) Cavanaugh passed away while in hospice on June 24, 2025 in Punta Gorda, Florida at 85 years old. She is survived by her husband of 58 years, John Thomas Cavanaugh of Punta Gorda, Florida.  She is also survived by her son Thomas Michael Cavanaugh, daughter-in-law Holly of Atlanta, Ga; and her daughter Lynne Cavanaugh and her husband Michael Garcia of New York City.  She is lovingly remembered by her grandchildren Jessica, Tommy, JT, Caroline, Ana and Ella.  She is also survived by her sister Nanette Perugini as well as many nieces and nephews.  She is predeceased by her brother John Perugini and her parents Paul and Antoinette Perugini. 

Norma was born in Brooklyn, NY and raised in New Rochelle, NY.  She was a graduate of Manhattanville College as well as the Katherine Gibbs School.  Norma was a trailblazer for women in business.  She served as Executive Assistant to the CEOs of General Foods and Texaco. The Cavanaugh's resided for many years in Armonk, NY before retiring to Punta Gorda, Florida.  She was a member for decades of the Seraphic Society which is a (not so secret) association of executive assistants to CEO's and the nation's elite.  They have been called the Illuminati of Executive Assistants and Norma truly cherished the friendships she maintained over many years with her coworkers and fellow Society members.  After her retirement she joined the Punta Gorda Chapter of St. Vincent de Paul where she helped found their pharmacy.  She was also an active member of the Sacred Heart Church in Punta Gorda where she volunteered on the Finance committee and sang in the choir. 

Norma bequeathed her love of good food and cooking abilities to both her children and grandchildren.  While in the past few years she conveniently forgot how to cook, Tom and Lynne have fond memories of her linguine with clam sauce, braciole, Bolognese and of course baked stuffed lobster for Christmas Eve.  Norma's hobbies also included knitting, needlepoint, and watching Law and Order SVU.