TikTok star heartbroken as family tragedy struck before 'Nanny Norma' death
Little Mix star Jade Thirlwall leads tributes as Nanny Norma - star of the TikTok account Jess And Norma - dies suddenly at the age of 91
Everyone's favourite TikTok nana, Nanny Norma, has died at the age of 91, her devastated granddaughter has confirmed.
Jess Asquith, who along with Norma Burton had built up a following of 2.7 million on their joint TikTok account JessAndNorma, shared the tragic news with fans after Norma died "peacefully" last Thursday.
But, in a heartbreaking twist, Norma's death is the second devastating loss in just a number of weeks for the poor family. "05/06/2025 the day our family lost our rock, our everything, our beautiful, precious, perfect lady," she wrote on their social pages. "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'.
"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 star Jade Thirlwall was among the first to pay tribute to Nanny Norma, writing to Jess: "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."
And another follower 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 abosutley beautiful soul of a lady... I know God has a special place in heaven for you."
A third commented: "Rest in peace to our TikTok nan! Thank you for sharing this wonderful woman with the world, she always brought a smile to my face whenever I seen a video of her. thinking of all her family in this difficult time."
Jess and Norma launched their channel during lockdown in 2020, and quickly amassed millions of followers thanks to their shared sense of humour and the pranks Jess would pull on her unsuspecting grandmother.
The pair, who lived in Retford in Nottinghamshire, would film themselves giggling away, bickering and going out together on trips, especially as Norma's health declined and she needed a wheelchair to get around and her eyesight deteriorated.
Fans loved their relationship, especially Norma's exasperation whenever Jess spent money on her, and many followers would tell the pair how much they reminded themselves of their own late grandparents. Norma's last photo shared on Facebook showed her in her wheelchair with Jess smiling down at her.
Tragically, Norma's death comes just weeks after the loss of Jess's dad, who she paid tribute to on her Facebook page on May 19. "Some of you may have noticed things have been a little quieter over the past month. I'm heartbroken to tell you all that l lost my dad suddenly in April. It's been the most difficult thing I've ever had to navigate," she wrote.
"My heart aches and the pain feels unbearable. I haven't really got the words. Jake has been my absolute rock and I've got amazing family and friends around me. Jake [Jess' partner] has been and will continue posting old footage and photos across our pages, whilst I take a little more time. Lots of love, Jess."
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