Alfred "Al" William Norman

Alfred “Al” William Norman, 86, of Johnstown, Ohio passed away peacefully on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at Cherry Blossom Senior Living in Columbus. He was born at home on August 14, 1939 in Liberty, Pennsylvania to the late Howard Lawrence Norman and Dorothy Mary Norman.

He worked throughout his life as a farmer, served in the Army, was a Dairyman, and a truck driver. He was a proud veteran of the United States Army, serving as a photographer and photo developer at the White House. He went on to serve at both University of Nevada Reno and New Mexico State University as Dairy Extension Specialist and then at the American Jersey Cattle Club. He eventually changed his career path and worked many years for JB Hunt as a long-haul truck driver. He never really stopped working: when he retired, he continued to “cut wood”, serve in the American Legion, and help with the Central Ohio Bluegrass Association. He was always ready to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. He and his wife, Karen, were also active members of the Johnstown United Methodist Church.

Al was a country boy in his heart. He carried the farm and his family with him everywhere he went. He never ceased to talk about home: the love and laughter of the Norman family and farm. He enjoyed a good joke and loved to dance. The staff of Cherry Blossom Senior Living commented with fondness on his joy of dancing! He was a kind and generous person, often serving others without the need of fanfare or praise.

Al is survived by his beloved wife of 33 years, Karen Sharp-Norman; siblings, Marilyn Norman, Ernest Norman, Duane Norman, Donald Norman, Ruth Morse, Dorothy Brubaker, and David Norman; children, Holly (Scott) Dodge and Jeffrey Norman; stepchildren, Anita Steele and David Pfleager; grandchildren, Timothy Dodge, Rae Dodge, Sophia Dodge, Ruby Norman, Nathaniel Dodge, Adam Dodge, and Evan Dodge; and a host of other family, friends, and loved ones. In addition to his parents, Al is preceded in passing by his sister, Janice Farmerie.

We appreciate the love and generous care of the staff at Cherry Blossom Senior Living.

A Memorial service will be held at Johnstown United Methodist Church (159 S. Main St.) at a future date.

Funeral services will be held at Salem Lutheran Church in Liberty, PA (3536 Nauvoo Rd.) on May 11th at 11:00 am. Al’s urn will be laid to rest at the family cemetery at the church.