Naomi Edmonds 1/16/1931 - 11/25/2024

Naomi Edmonds, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, wife, and friend passed away November 25th. Born on January 16, 1931, in Cardin, OK, she was the second of four daughters to Joseph and Florence McHaffie. As a young woman, her family ventured west to California, settling in Chico, where Naomi worked at Pacific Bell Telephone Company. After marrying Max Edmonds, they made their home in the Feather River Canyon, where Max worked for PG&E and Naomi drove the local "school bus" (a well-loved station wagon) to Big Bar, the one-room school in Pulga. In 1965, they relocated to Auburn, where they would remain and thrive. Naomi was an exceptional homemaker, a devoted mother, and a cherished friend, recognized for both her warm hospitality and her impeccable style. Guests who stepped through her door were greeted with genuine kindness and often treated to her legendary pies and potato salad—dishes that remained family favorites for decades. She took special pride in her appearance, always "put together" in a way that was both elegant and down-to-earth. She and Max cultivated a rich community of "old car friends" and spent many happy years traveling across the West and Midwest on National Model T Tours and enjoying the open road in their 1965 Mustang. Naomi contributed to her community as well, becoming the first "official" employee at Machado's apple barn when it opened in the 1980s. Whether she was browsing garage sales, tending her garden, spending time with her cherished family, or savoring her daily Starbucks coffee, Naomi embraced life's simple pleasures. Her warmth, laughter, and signature style will be fondly remembered by all who knew her. Naomi is survived by her daughters, Linda Jayne and Karen Edmonds (Melissa Odom Blide); grandchildren, Carrie Leonard and Bob Leonard (Alex Romanello); niece, Donna Noblett; nephew, Joe Orrick; and many friends and neighbors. Each person touched by Naomi carries forward her legacy of kindness, grace, and generosity. A Celebration of Life will be held January 16, 2025. Contact Karen at naomicelebrationoflife@gmail.com for more info. Donations may be made to the Friends of the Auburn Library, or to Alta California Regional Center (ACRC). In Naomi's honor, enjoy a cup of Starbucks with friends.