Donald Wood Norman

Donald W. Norman, aka Don, Daddy & Granddaddy, passed away Friday, April 1, 2016, following several months of declining health. He leaves behind the love of his life, Retha M. Norman, daughters Donna Bryan and Kim Shope. Two “sons”-in-law, Mike Bryant and Gary Shope. Three very special grandchildren, Jenna & Matt Bryant and Cameron Huskey.

He was born in Summerfield, NC in 1934 to the late John Edgar Norman and Mae Wood Norman, brothers Mike, Keith and sister, Kathy survive him. Raised on a farm he learned early on the meaning and value of hard work which eventually lead him to a long career with the USDA, Farmers Home Administration. He and his family began their “trek” across the State that began in Statesville, Wadesboro (birthplace of Donna), a promotion moved them to Clinton (birthplace of Kim), then to Hertford, Enfield, and finally to Williamston in 1970. He retired as District Director, overseeing 13 counties, after 35 years of service. Many families across the state benefited because of his commitment to ensure equal treatment & service to those that truly needed assistance in their lives. Upon retirement from FmHA, because of his working knowledge of rural water and sewer systems, he contracted with Martin County and implemented the county-wide sewer system.

Don graduated from Bethany High School at an early age – 15. He was accepted and graduated from NC State University in 1955 and was the 2nd youngest student in that class of 1,000. Following graduation he met his future life partner & love, Retha. They had their first date in November, engaged in December and married in January 1956. They recently celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary.

Dad enjoyed golf, loved his dogs and being with family and friends. He especially enjoyed having coffee with the coffee boys everyday at 8am and 2pm. The waitresses loved “Mr. Don” and would even send a cup of coffee home when he was sick and couldn’t make it. He never lost his farm boy roots as he was an avid gardener growing beautiful roses, blueberries, peach trees, grapes & seasonal vegetables. Many friends benefited from his passion!

From the beginning of their marriage, mom and dad were actively involved in the community. His role was key in the establishment of Scotfield Country Club in Halifax County while they resided in Enfield, NC. He served as President of the Rotary, Jaycees and Lions Club and Secretary of the Ruritans while living in Hertford, NC. He also was President of the Lions Club, Kiwanis Club and Secretary of Roanoke Country Club in Williamston, NC. He served on the Mid-East Commission, Jail Commission for Martin & Bertie Counties and was Chairman of the Martin County ABC Commission for an unprecedented 16 years. Under his leadership the Commission was out “of the red” and into the black. He continued to give back by reducing his salary during this time of service.

Two awards he was most proud of was being named “Jaycee of the Year” in 1967 and receiving the Order of the Long Leaf Pine by Governor James G. Martin upon his retirement from FmHA. Although being a life long adamant Democrat, he had great respect for this Republican Governor. Rumor has it he even voted for him at least once.

His great accomplishment and love was his family and his dog Tara, who predeceased him. People who knew him always said if they died first and came back they’d want to come back as “Don’s dog”. He was a kind, gentle soul. Quiet and soft spoken, always taking it in and leaving you with a one liner that left a smile on your face or shaking your head.

We thank all of the nurses, doctors, and staff at Martin General Hospital, Vidant Medical Center and the Service League of Greenville In-patient Hospice in Greenville, NC who helped with his care. Even when he could not speak all of the nurses would comment “he’s so sweet”. That’s the person he was – sweet and kind.

In lieu of flowers please consider a “tangible” donation to:

Service League of Greenville In-Patient Hospice by writing in the memo line: Kitchen supplies or Laundry supplies, so this center can continue to provide for other families as they did for our family. Mailing address: 920 Wellness Drive, Greenville NC 27834

A memorial service will be held in the Biggs Funeral Home Chapel at 302 West Main Street, Williamston, NC on Saturday, April 9, 2016. Visitation at 1pm followed by the service at 2pm.