Bridgeport High Alumna and Family Business Owner, Norenne LaVonne Bush, Passes Away
By Connect-Bridgeport Staff on July 21, 2026
It is with heavy hearts, and with deep gratitude for a life well lived, that we announce the passing of Norenne LaVonne Bush, who passed away on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, surrounded by her loving family in her home. Born on November 4, 1948, in Clarksburg, West Virginia, Norenne was the youngest daughter of the late Paul Pritchard and Esther Pritchard of Clarksburg.
Norenne is survived by her loving husband of 59 years, Michael Bush; her only daughter, Michele (Bush) DeBerry, and her husband, Ryan 
DeBerry; and her two granddaughters, Lindsey DeBerry and her husband, Austin Anderson, and Madison DeBerry, whom she loved with all of her heart. Also surviving are her brothers-in-law, Ronnie Bush and his wife Beverly; Richard Bush and his companion Robin; and Jeff “JT” Bush and his wife Joi; and her sister-in-law, Sharlene Muscar and her husband Fred; and many nieces and nephews.
DeBerry; and her two granddaughters, Lindsey DeBerry and her husband, Austin Anderson, and Madison DeBerry, whom she loved with all of her heart. Also surviving are her brothers-in-law, Ronnie Bush and his wife Beverly; Richard Bush and his companion Robin; and Jeff “JT” Bush and his wife Joi; and her sister-in-law, Sharlene Muscar and her husband Fred; and many nieces and nephews.
Norenne was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Randy Pritchard, and his wife, Linda; and her sister, Sandra (Pritchard) Misocky, and her husband, Bill.
Norenne grew up at Maple Lake in Bridgeport, West Virginia, and was a member of the first graduating class of Bridgeport High School on Johnson Avenue.
Norenne had a zest for life and a contagious laugh that brought joy to those around her. She lived from the heart, with a nurturing and caring nature that touched everyone who knew her. She loved her family dearly, and her two granddaughters were the light of her life. The wonderful person she was will be treasured and remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Throughout her career, Norenne worked in many different roles. She began in banking, went on to build a successful power tong business with her husband, and later concluded her career as a fingerprint identifier with the FBI division in Clarksburg, West Virginia.
Norenne had many loves, including crocheting, gardening, and riding the trike motorcycle with her husband. Anyone who knew her well will also remember her passion for sweets—she always preferred dessert before dinner.
Norenne’s love, laughter, and generous spirit will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. Though she will be deeply missed, her memory will continue to bring comfort, strength, and joy to her family and friends for years to come.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are requested to be made to the alz.org, in honor of Norenne’s struggle with the disease.
Friends will be received at Burnside Funeral Home, 607 S. Virginia Avenue, Bridgeport, on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, from 4 – 8 p.m., where services will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Wednesday, July 22, 2026. Interment will follow in West Virginia National Cemetery.
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