Betty Jane Norwood

Born in Wyoming on February 21, 1930, to Hannah and Leslie Harrod, Betty was a bright spirit from the beginning. She was raised alongside her brothers, Jerry and Leslie, in a home full of warmth, humor, and love. After the loss of her mother, she was further blessed with the care of Nila Harrod, who continued to nurture that joyful spirit.

In 1947, Betty married her soulmate, Jack Paul Norwood. Their enduring love story spanned more than 50 years and was filled with deep devotion, shared dreams, and the raising of their four sons—Danny, Craig, Larry and Mark. Together, they built a legacy of love, strength, and faith.

Betty was known for her boundless joy, her fierce resilience, and her remarkable talents.

Whether working at JCPenney’s, creating famous dishes in her kitchen, or cheering for the Astros - she poured passion into everything she did. A gifted seamstress and an artist in the kitchen, she had a unique eye for beauty and poured her creativity into everything she touched. Through every season of life, Betty carried an amazing light and sense of humor, even during the hardest of times. Always displayed strength for all who were around her, even during her own battle with a brain tumor which she fought and conquered.

She lived in Arkansas, Wyoming, Richmond and Katy Texas, but her true home was wherever her family and laughter were found.

Betty is survived by her loving children Craig & Eve Norwood, Larry & Peggy Norwood, Renee Norwood Todd, Marcy Norwood; 13 grandchildren; 28 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild and a host of loving nieces and nephews. She now joins in eternal rest her beloved husband Paul, sons Danny and Mark, siblings Jerry and Leslie, and many cherished pets.

In Her Words “Choose joy. Don’t let anyone steal your joy.”

Betty was a woman who found the truest love early in life—through God, Paul, and her family. She was one of the most talented, strongest, and joyful souls we’ve ever known. Her spirit will live on in every sunflower, every beam from a lighthouse, and every moment of grace we carry forward in her name. Sunflowers and laughter were her signature, and she leaves behind a garden of both in our hearts.

Please honor Betty by doing something that brings joy—to yourself or to someone else. That’s how she lived. That’s how she would want to be remembered.

Forever loved. Forever joyful.