James Franklin Norman Jr.'s Obituary
James Norman Jr., 78, of Fruitland Park, Florida, entered into the presence of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Friday, July 17, 2026. Born on July 23, 1947, in Clarksburg, West Virginia, he was the son of the late James F. Norman Sr. and Evelyn Jane Norman.
James was a devoted husband, loving father, caring brother, faithful minister, proud veteran, and cherished friend. He is survived by his beloved wife, Iris Norman; his daughter, Laura Nicholson, and her husband, Matthew Nicholson; his brother, John Norman, and his wife, Carol Norman; along with many extended family members, lifelong friends, and brothers and sisters in Christ who were blessed by his life and testimony.
James proudly served his country in the United States Navy as a Store Keeper abroad the U.S.S Slmon Lake.
His love for his country was matched only by his love for his family and his unwavering devotion to God.
Above all, James loved Jesus Christ. His relationship with the Lord was the center of his life and was reflected in the way he loved, served, and encouraged others.
His servants heart unwavering commitment to the work of God and his personal calling impacted countless lives.
He held an Ordained Minister’s License with the United Pentecostal Church International (UPCI), a calling that he treasured . He Pastored three church’s in WV and OH, served as hospital chaplains, ministered to inmates as well as numerous nursing home ministries and supported the work of Home Missions throughout his 40+ years of ministry with the UPCI. His kindness, wisdom, and steadfast faith brought comfort and encouragement to everyone.
James deeply loved his family and friends, always putting others before himself. He was known for his kindness, gentle spirit, wisdom, and steadfast faith. His presence brought comfort and encouragement to everyone he met.
For the past year, James courageously battled Parkinson’s disease. Although the illness gradually weakened his body, it never weakened his faith. He remained steadfast in God’s promises and often held tightly to the words of Jeremiah 17:14:
“Heal me, O Lord, and I shall be healed; save me, and I shall be saved: for Thou art my praise.”
This Scripture became a testimony of the hope and trust that sustained him throughout his journey. His confidence in God never wavered, and he continued to inspire those around him with his unwavering faith.
While James leaves an irreplaceable void in the hearts of those who knew and loved him, his family rejoices in the assurance that he is now healed, whole, and in the presence of the Savior he faithfully served throughout his life.
His life is fittingly remembered through the words of the Apostle Paul:
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”
— 2 Timothy 4:7
James fought faithfully, finished well, and has now received the eternal reward promised to all who love the Lord. His legacy of faith, love, compassion, service, and unwavering trust in God will continue to live on through his family, his ministry, and all whose lives he touched.
A memorial Service of James’s life will be held on September 26, 2026 1:00 PM. at the 1st United Pentecostal Church of Fruitland Park
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial gifts through acts of kindness, service to others, or to the 1st United Pentecostal Church building fund. A congregation he supported for many years. - https://www.1stupcfp.net/
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